Lyons Family Happenings

Triathlon Tuesday: Meet The Team

2010-07-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

*** Disclaimer*** LyonsHappenings has not intentionally become just about the triathlon. However eBlogger has made changes to how I upload photos and thus do posts about super exciting things like family camp...and it is truly aggrevating. I am in the process of putting together "family" related posts, but I am also considering moving our blog to a different location- so sorry for the lack of family info...until that here is yet another one photo tri related post***

Here in her own words, Meet Shannon: Hey loyal Lyons blog followers! I'm honored to contribute a guest post on here! My name is Shannon Caton and here's how it all went down for me and how I became a part of this beautiful chaos! Here are my stats: Wife to one awesome Canadian guy and mother of two busy, beautiful girls, Regan almost 4 and Rowan 2. Loving being a stay at home mom, but also nice to work one or two weekends a month in the Physical Therapy Dept at a nursing home. I know, I know, if I make the elderly work out, I've got no excuse to say no to this opportunity!

So our little quad started off as the Monday night Bachelor watching group and some how turned into a World Vision Triathlon Training group! Both very good, don't get me wrong, but one of these activities takes a lot more effort than the other! Thanks to Megan who got this whole ball rolling...it has already been an amazing experience. So thank you for including me on this journey for many reasons...I get to spend time with awesome friends, get some great work outs in, and all for a greater cause. How can you go wrong with that? Honestly, a triathlon is something I've always wanted to "check off my list" so here we go! It's good to be working out on a consistant basis again, something I've always enjoyed. And when I'm exhausted for 24 hrs after swimming and have to go running the next day, it's so much easier to do it when you know it's really not about me.

I, too was looking for a way to get involved in World Vision, so it was pretty easy to say yes to Megan when she asked me to join her. We are so fortunate and blessed to live in a such a priveleged country and it was really driven home when reading the book "The Hole in the Gospel". The statistics are staggering regarding the number of deaths of children alone, that die each day from preventable illnesses due to a lack of clean water. This is a relatively simple thing we can do to make a difference for others. And as my healthy 4 yr old holds up a sign that says "Go Mom Go" as I start off on my run, it's a good reminder that I have been blessed, my children are blessed and now here's a chance to help other children. What a great motivator.

So there it is....how I got roped into this deal and oh how I'm loving it!

Triathlon Tuesday: Meet the Team

2010-07-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

Over the next couple of weeks the Triathlon Tuesday post will be a guest post done by one of our team members. I thought it might be fun for you to meet the team and to hear how and why they came to join the team and what the process and training has meant thus far to them. To kick it off is the first person I asked, the first person who said yes, Meet Shelly.

"Hi my name is Shelly Connnors, and I think I may have hit insanity about a month ago"

Conversation about one month ago...

Megan: "Want to do a triathlon with me?"

Me: "You're funny I can hardly doggie paddle" Thoughts through the day, evening, night (terrors), morning: "This would be a good discipline through the summer, fun with friends, could we find a non-profit to benefit"

Next morning ---
Me: "Meg - I think I'll do it, but don't make it public."

The next few days lots of thoughts and lots of questioning myself and wondering what I got in to occured. Then came the twist of benefiting World Vision which made it seem so much more worthwhile and a goal to work for. Then it hit facebook it was as if I had signed on the dotted line.
So, here we are a month later. A lot has been sacrificed to work this training into my schedule. I am a busy mom of one almost 6 year old who thinks it is so cool that I am going to race for World Vision. It is about a daily question of when the race is, so it is now on the calendar for all to see. My husband is extremely supportive as he encourages me to hit the trail and reminds me how good it will feel when I get out there. He never complains when I am gone at night training. Wearing my Team World Vision bracelet has been a conversation piece as I go to my patients' homes as a home health nurse.

I have to admit the motivation in starting this was to spend time with friends and get off my duff - hoping to get a habit formed that will continue past the triathlon. This has already gotten off to a great start. Then when Megan shared the Team World Vision concept and I got so excited. It seems there are lots of races out there, but we wanted this particular event to benefit other people, not just ourselves, and not just for self accomplishment. I am very excited to raise the money to supply a well for a village in Africa. As we bike up the trail it is great motivation to see the Team World Vision shirt in front of me and makes me work that much harder to get to the goal.

And here is an interesting tidbit we were sharing as we swam tonight...is it just irony or a sign from God - the hardest part thus far, for all of us it seems, is the swimming, isn't if funny that our biggest struggle takes place in and is related to water....the very thing we are working so hard to bring to familes and communities in Africa...we get it God..it is not about us,this is about doing good for your people and for your glory.

Alki Sunshine

2010-07-06T14:51:00.000-07:00

We have been at a loss for sunshine and warm weather for here in the northwest for the months of May and June. Often we would look out side and think it was November. But at last the sun shone bright and so the boys and I joined some friends for the inagural trip to our favorite summer hang out. We hit Alki, in Seattle and enjoyed some serious sun and sand. The boys ran and played, buried one anther in the sand and then demanded our favorite part: fish and chips from Spud's. It was a great day and a fantastic way to kick off what appears to be a week full of super high temps. Hooray for sunshine.

Rowan sporting her super cute sun hat

Jack thrilled to be sitting in a pile of sand.

Max and Regan working hard on some sort of sand creation.

Truly enjoying their fish and chips. Ahh these fish loving boys make their mama proud.

Just two mom's catching some raise and enjoying the perks of being stay at home moms.

Delinquent Mom Episode Two

2010-06-30T07:12:00.000-07:00

So with summer now in full swing the boys are enjoying their "free" time. The weather in our neck of the woods has not been cooperative thus far, but any time it is warmer than 60 degrees and the sun shines albeit for only a few brief moments the boys haul out the suits, goggles and sprinkler. They also spend a majority of their time asking for another otter pop...and who am I to say no. We purchased the Costco box and now my garge freezer has only a mere 351 left...oops...350. Last week cousin Madison came for day and the three kids had a blast in the yard all afternoon.

Another nod to summer and it's lovely unstructured self was the recent change in lyons boy hair care: they opted for mohawks at our last visit to Mrs. Johnson's house of hair. It was Jack that was the initiator, he opting first and then us saying why not and cutting Max's hair the same. But alas after a few days we have learned that Jack's hair is way to thick and heavy and not suited to the hawk. So now it is only Max with the do.

And yes, this summer we will be addressing Max and his so called smile. He has a fantastic unprompted smile that just screams Joy...but you ask the kid to smile and it is as if he is passing a stone....ugh.

Saturday Jack had his final baseball game and did a fantastic job. He really enjoyed himself this year and it was so great to watch. Making catches, learning positions and making great hits...so fun to see. He had a great time with his friend Jonathan from church being on his team and all the parents agreed that the coaches made this year a great success. Jack mind you thinks that this was the best year ever because he walked away with his biggest trophy yet.

But Jon and I agree that it was his coaches, a husband and wife duo, that make this year fun. They were great with the kids. Helped the kids to understand the game of baseball but also working to help each kid make progress wherever they were at. They were also super encouraging with their words, generous with compliments and helped kids to play up and and stay engaged in the game. We could not have been more thrilled.

So there are the happenings of summer thus far for the Lyons. Next week, have no fear the blog will be a blaze as we recount the day by day happenings of Family Camp. We are headed there today and look forward to sharing some pictures and stories very soon.

Also, Triathlon Tuesday will be back next week (drumroll please) with a special guest post from some of our team members. But if you just can't take the suspense and need something to tie you over, grab a beverage and maybe a snack and click here to view a video that was shown at our church last week. It is 25 minutes long but addresses how people at our church are hearing God challenge them to move to places of action when it comes to social justice. Our triathlon team is featured and addresses how and why we decided to take a triathlon on.

Deliquent Mom Episode One

2010-06-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know I have been truly delinquent when it comes to blogging the everyday happenings of our family. The month of June has come and gone with amazing speed and I have found myself all kinds of busy. Please accept my apologies and take a minute (or 15) to catch up with what happened in our neck of the woods the first part of June.

Jack had long awaited Field Trip:
Yup, the big day came and Jack got to board the yellow bus with his special / field trip lunch packed in a personalized brown paper bag. He of course requested a lunchable...because, well he never gets them. Max and I followed the bus down to the zoo and when we met them at the front gate Jack had nothing but high praise for the bus riding experience.

Jack spent the day palling around with his best buddies from school: Roland, Cadence, Grady and Elijah. Those boys ran from exhibit to exhibit and truly wore themselves (and this mom) out. It was great way to say farewell to an excellent Kindergarten year.

Jack truly had a fantastic year at school. It is so amazing to see how much he has grown as a person and as a student. Jon and I could not have been more pleased with his teacher. She truly is one of those women who has the special ability to manage students, keep an organized classroom and most importantly get students excited about attending school, growing as learners and having fun in the process. Jack's whole staff at his school is terrific as well. We prayed long and hard about his first year of school and God brought us to the best place for our Jack and for our family. It was a good year.

Lots of Love for the Game:
Jack spent most of June honing his skills in baseball. This year he has truly loved the game and it is great to see him understanding more of the game. While we thought we signed up for t-ball, this is actually a combination of tball and coach pitch. The majority of the time Jack is hitting balls without the tee and oh, he gets so excited. Also, the kids are all taking turns at different positions and Jack really like to be catcher ( because of the gear) or 2nd base.

On the Home Front:
While it is summer, each day we are taking some time to "do school". And surprisingly Jack and Max are both on board. Maybe it is the suckers that they get. But whatever works right. We just want to make sure that we keep that mind sharp and Max loves to be involved in whatever Jack is doing.
Well more will come tomorrow....but for now there you go. A little glimpse....Just living everyday life and loving it.

Daddy takes us out!

2010-06-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Last night the family got to enjoy one of the perks of Jon's job. We got to attend the Premier of the new device called Kinect. This device allows you to play active games without a controller. The whole game is by your body. It is super cool. Microsoft rented out the Lincoln plaza Cinemas at Bell Square. When we arrived, they had us walk the "purple" carpet in front of the xbox banner and have our photos taken....if I had known, maybe Max would not have worn his orange socks. After our photo it was into the theater where we could help ourselves to anything we wanted from the concessions stand. The boys loved that. For dinner they enjoyed: Nachos, Iccee Slushies and Popcorn. Yup, good mom award for sure. Then we watched on the big screen a very cool performance by Cirque Du Soleil. As we left we given fantastic goodie bags with a ton of great stickers that Jack has already put up on his wall. The boys loved the night. They enjoyed all of it...and that has got to make a daddy feel good. Thanks Jon, for how hard you work and for letting us share in this fun with you.

Triathlon Tuesday: Excited to DO

2010-06-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

So the whole team set out last night to put some miles on the bikes. We had a great ride and truly enjoyed ourselves. This morning our backsides are reminding us of the good time we had. Each of us commented as we were setting out how excited we were to be training. This had caught each of us by surprise because none of us are athletes. But lots factored into our excitement. The chance to push ourselves physically, to get spend time with one another but also and most importantly each of us is so excited about "DOING SOMETHING" to make our world better and to help families live FULL and HEALTHY LIVES. Below is a quick clip about how World Vision will use the funds we raise during our training and participating in the upcoming triathlon to build a well in an African community. Take a minute to watch how clean water transforms lives.

Our purpose in partnering with World Vision for this Triathlon is two fold: Awareness and Action. We hope that in our training, sharing with friends and Tuesday Blogging to bring the issue of water to people's attention. It is to big of an issue to be overlooked or ignored. And we hope that awareness prompts ACTION. If you would like to donate to our cause and help us raise the needed funds to build a well, and bring clean water to a community please click on the picture on the left side bar to place an online donation specificlly for our team. (water mama's of cedarcreek covenant church, maple valley.) We are so appreciative and thank you in advance. Any amount...event pennies can and WILL make a difference.

Swim, Bike, Ride.....OH MY...WHY?

2010-06-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

Settle in folks here comes an extended post: I would like to introduce to you a new series of posts that will happen on Tuesdays called Triathlon Tuesdays. Maybe some of you have heard by now,(and are still hysterically laughing) but I have decided with a few friends to do my very first triathlon come September 26th. Why you might ask. Well that is a very good question with two answers.

1) I needed a little summer motivation when it came to working out, so why not do something completely outside my comfort zone.

2) I want to change lives! Yup. you read that right. My girlfriends and I are participating in this triathlon as part of a World Vision team. This means that as part of our training and participating we are also fundraising for Clean Water Wells in Africa.

See a couple of months ago I read and was radically challenged by a book called "The Hole in our Gospel." It was written by the president of World Vision and was an amazing book. As I turned every page I was challenged that I needed to do something. But what? What was I going to do to better be the hands and feet of Jesus and respond to the great need in our world. Jon and I have been long time supporters of World Vision and so appreciate the way that they work in communities to meet the most basic needs to give children and families the best life, life to the fullest. After reading the book I had lots of ideas, lots of things crossed my mind and a few different options were explored. But then as I was visiting World Visions website I learned about Team World Vision. Here athletes (or non-athletes like myself) can participate in events with the purpose of raising awareness and funds. My initial thought was that this is great for someone who is a runner...or an athlete...but not for me. Days past and I could not get it out of my head. What if I did that. What if I trained and participated and what if because of my efforts enough money was raised so that children and families in a village thousands of miles away from me could have clean, drinkable water. Clean water is something we take for granted. In communities around the world where clean water is not available children die from all manner of disease and from simple things like diarrhea. Every day, nearly 4,000 children die as a result of drinking unsafe water. Every 22 seconds a child perishes from waterborne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, and dysentery. Six million people are blind as a result of contaminated water and bacteria. The issue of clean water is one of the most powerful lessons I took with me from the book, and here with a simple triathlon I could possibly do something about it. And so...here we go. With a few girlfriends who have never done anyting like this before we are embarking on a summer of training, raising awareness and hopefully raising funds. While it will be a physical challenge for us we are so excited because it could mean life to the fullest to children around the world.It is our goal to raise $3,000 dollars. That is enough money to build a well for a village in Africa and change the lives of few hundred people. So here it is. A new Lyons Happening Blog Series: Triathlon Tuesdays. On Tuesdays I will report on our training, the lessons we have learned in the process as well as sharing with you some facts and figures about the water issue that I have learned through World Vision. Hope to see on Tuesdays.

Wonderful Wedding Weekend

2010-06-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

Jack and I enjoyed a road trip thursday-saturday we traveled to Summerland, Canada to participate in and celebrate our good friend Dana and Joe's Wedding. We are so thrilled for Dana and Joe. It was a beautiful ceremony and we are excited for them as they begin their life together. Jack and I had a fantastic time in Summerland. It was a beautiful place to to be. Here is a little photo diary of the events.

Thursday We said goodbye to daddy and dropped Max off at Nan's house and then headed to meet our caravan friends The Johnsons. By 8:15 we were on the road. The day was beautiful which made our drive so enjoyable. We stopped for lunch around 12 near Chelan. A little lakeside picnic lunch was just what we needed. Jack, Mia, Sam and Isaac got some good running in while Kenton, Gretchen and I enjoyed some sunshine.

Then it was back into the car for the long stretch. We crossed the boarder with no issue and made our way north to Summerland. We arrived, changed clothes and then Jack and I headed off with Joe and Dana wedding rehearsal. Jack was thrilled to ride shotgun with Joe.

We then partook of a tasty dinner with family and wedding party at a great Italian resturant that actually had a kids playset right outside. The kids spent most of their time outside which was great after a day in the car.

Jack and I were lucky enough to stay at Dana's parents house. What wonderful hosts they were. We truly enjoyed our time with Margie and Henry. (THANKS so much for your hospitality). Around 11:30 we finally called it a night and hit the pillows. A big day lie ahead.

Friday The sunny weather was gone and the rain poured but we were up and out by 8am for the Wedding Day Fun Run/Walk at the Tressel. Leave it to running enthusiests to think that this would be a great way to start the day. All the family members and wedding party gathered and walked the tressle and enjoyed (even in the rain) the beauty of Summerland. Then it was back to the house for brunch and setting up the reception tent.

After the tent was set Jack and I set out to grab some lunch and to aquire a piece of Canadian memorablila. Once our goals were met it was back to the house for Jack to rest, while sporting a hat of course and for me to "be there" for Dana. Dana and I hung out, got ready and I spent some time iroing clothes for the men. Gotta love photos of Dana and I with no make up.

Then the time came and wedding clothes were donned and it was off to the ornamental gardens for the ceramony. While rain had come and gone through out the day it was clear and a little sunny at the ceremony. Pastor Kenton did a fantastic job and the location was beautiful. Another highlight was that Jack was in charge of the rings. He took his job very seriously. After some photos were taken ( a link to the professional photos to come) it was back to the house for a reception. The day was exactly what Joe and Dana wanted with enough to make it special but also the right amount of being comfortable.

As the reception came to an end Jack and I headed with the Johnsons to watch the fireworks at a local park. The kids had a fantastic time sitting outside enjoying the show.

Saturday Jack and I awoke, got ready and sneaked out of a very quiet and tired house. We headed to the Canandian favorite, Tim Hortons for a doughnut and some coffee. Then we drove a round a bit enjoying a beautiful morning and then it was back to the house to pack up. It was at that point that I locked my keys in the car. UGH. But no worries, Dana's Dad and Brother (WHO ROCK) spent some time working some break in magic and Grandma Margie and I took Jack and the cousins downtown for the parade. When got home the keys were out, the car loaded, one more foot dip in the pond had and hugs and goodbyes given. Then Jack and I settled in for a the long drive.

This time Jack and I made our way home via Bellingham were we took a break to play with Auntie Kendra and Rawgo at beach. We streched our legs a little more, had a great dinner with Kendra and Travis at a local resturant and then into the car for the final stretch. We arrived home at 10:30 and laid an exhausted Jack in his bed.

;

We truly enjoyed our roadtrip and our weekend and are so greatful to Dana's parents for hosting us. We enjoyed meeting Joe's family and some of Dana's brothers and nieces and nephews. Thank you so much Dana and Joe for inviting us to be part of your special weekend. Much Love!

KA-CHOW | It's birthday time.

2010-06-01T13:13:00.000-07:00

Well I have just finished sweeping mounds of fun-fetti cake crumbs off the floor and Max is fully engulfed in a few pile of toys. Oh it is good to turn 3!.

Today we celebrated Max's birthday with some of his little friends. He enjoyed a "Cars" theme birthday and loved his decorations and his cake. He and friends enjoyed the bounce house, playing play dough and lots of time outside. The moms enjoyed some good snacks and conversation. Thanks so much to all who shared in this afternoons party. Tomorrow night is party part 2 with the Grandparents.

Family Shout Out : Good Luck Travis

2010-05-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

This is Uncle Travis. Kendra's Awesome Husband.
And Yes, He is snowboarding off of a super crazy high
Utah bridge in this here picture.

With this sort of passion for the outdoors and things extreme it is no suprise that this weekend Travis is competing with his team "Toppa the West" in the SKI TO SEA race in Bellingham. In the attached USA Today Article this event is described as a "grueling outdoor adventure race that blends sportsmanship with competativeness".Travis will be competing in the last leg by doing the 5 mile Sea Kayaking accross the bay. Good Luck Travis. Here is to fun, great weather and calm seas. Can't wait to hear the results.

Mid Week Recap

2010-05-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Well life at the Lyons house is busy on all fronts. Last weekend was a blur and only now is this mom realizing some of the fun was caught on film. Here is a little weekend recap so that you can get that glimpse at Lyons life that I know you have had such a hankering for. (sarcastic...so sarcastic)

Saturday MorningEvery surface was wiped, wiped and wiped again. Every floor scrubbed within an inch of its life and pennants hung from the celing. It was celebration time. Our good friend Dana is just weeks away from getting hitched and it was my honor to host her wedding shower.

There was great food, lots for friends and no shortage of laughter. While the ladies partied, Jack and the boys were off at t-ball where Jack continued to rock. He is getting the hang of this whole coach pitch thing and is doing well at anticpating plays and staying "in the game".

Saturday Evening we left the boys with a babysitter (here is a shout out to Megan Carter..who is awesome)and Jon and I were off to a Travel Planning Dinner. We enjoyed great food, lots of wine and it was my turn to make the dessert...which I did surprisinly well at if I do say so myself. The purpose of this month's meeting was to finalize the itinary and to discuss packing. We are taking one carry on bag each. (hello !! and that takes some thought) It was a great time and got me really excited. September 2011 cannot come soon enough. Take a look at the great view we will get to enjoy from our time on the Amalfi Coast and our Tuscany Hike.

I cannot wait. A visit to place like that pictured above have been my dream since Manthou's Junior year Humanities class. Yippee!

Sunday Morning it was off to church, which I just have to say, I love my church. The people, the worship, the messages...it is all kinds of good everyweek. After church it was time for the big costco shopping and then to the lake for a baptism. This was exciting because Dana's to be husband Joe was baptised along with Violet, who is the classroom assistant for Jack's sunday school class and then a father and son duo. It was great to see each person's spiritual journey be made public with the act of baptism. We have spent the last year praying for Joe and are so excited for him!

After the Baptism it was off to the Mexican resturant to catch up with Jon's parents. If you ask me a margarita and chips and salsa is a great way to end the weekend.

So now, as I post it is thursday and the life this mommy leads is full of everyday suprises like this:

I found the boys hiding in the pantry and when the emerged Jack proudly declared that He had tatooed their arms. Max kept showing me his arm and saying "Jack do a nice job. good work jack, good work jack" Gosh I hope Jack is not honing a skill for prison life.

YUP. Life at the Lyons. I like it.

Happy Mothers Day!

2010-05-09T18:21:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful Mother's Day here in the northwest. I was treated to my favorite latte and a table full of loot this morning. There were great cards by the kiddos, this year the theme was dogs, each card contained pictures of dogs...just more of the boys attempting to sway the mother to "lets get a dog camp". Jack gifted me with a very nice card and flowers. My gift from the all of them was a great pair of workout/hiking bermuda shorts, in a fantastic green color. So fun. Then it was off to church, then to lunch with Jon's side of the family. After tasty sandwhiches at Panera (yum) we loaded into the car to visit the Bellevue Botanical Gardens. Which was great, I got to spend my day sandwhiched between my favorite munchkins.

The gardens where beautiful, the weather was great and we enjoyed spending time with Nan, Uncle Nic and Aunt Rachel. All in all a great day.

Now, as I type Jon and the boys are finishing up their playing then it is off to bed for them and some couch time for Jon and I while enjoying my favorite dinner: tasty steak, yummy fruit salad, garlic bread and a glass of wine. The day was good. It is good to be MOM.

Opening Day

2010-05-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

It was a big Saturday here at the Lyons house. The weather was beautiful for opening day of baseball. Jack was thrilled to be there and was excited the whole game. Wow! what a difference a year makes. Jas was engaged the whole time. He was anticipating plays and was running the whole time. His first two at bats he got hits off the tee, but his final at bat he had a great hit off a coach pitch. A great way to end the game. We were excited that once again he is playing with his friend Jonathan. Thanks to Nan, Pop and Uncle Nic for attending the first game.

After the game Uncle Nic brought his new dog Angus over to visit. To say that the boys LOVED the dog is an understatement. They had a great time in the back yard, walked him around the block and even wrestled with him inside. Thanks Uncle Nic for the visit and thanks Angus...for the patience.

Jon Rocks | The Room Reveal

2010-05-06T09:50:00.000-07:00

That type "A", attention to detail personality paid off. Jon mastered the paint job of Jack's new Sounders/Seahawks inspired bedroom. With florescent green on the bottom and a cool blue stripe mid wall, Jack is loving the room re-do. While I tried to sway him to let me repaint his bulletin board and forgo some of the red accents, he would not compile. " Mom I still like red too...they can stay that way". So be it.All we need now are three posters for the walls: Sounders, Seahawks and Mariners and Jack would like me to frame his "old" Hasselback jersey to go on the wall. Way to go Jon. The room looks great, and your kiddo is one pleased boy. Does it get better? I don't think so.

It's Good to Have Friends

2010-05-04T21:20:00.000-07:00

and tonight..the friend that gets the shout out is (drumroll please) it'a Shelly.
Shelly came this evening to go walking. You know, a nice relaxing stroll around the neighborhood. About half way through the walk, it started raining..then pouring...then massive hail chunks came and pounded us. Both Shelly and I try to avoid running at all costs, but we were soaked, the air was cold and the hail came fast, heavy and sharp and so we then had to run the rest of the way home...including our run up the massive hill. Yup, we did it...and we laughed our way home. Tonight was just one example of why I love my friends. Thank Shelly..it was great fun.(PS) the pictures do not do the hail justice. The driveway was covered, the hail was huge and our clothes were SOOO Wet.

Going Green and Chicken Pickin'

2010-05-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

It's a big weekend at the Lyons house and the boys are both super excited about it.
First off, it adios to Jack's fire truck bedroom and hello XBOX green. That is right Jack has gone green...florescent green, with a blue stripe in the middle. While Jon is hard at work in the painting of Jack's room and final pictures will not be ready until at least Monday here is a little sneak peek.

While Jon was hard at work painting today the boys and I headed over to my parents house to do some Chicken Pickin. Last week my parents built a coop and today each grandson got to go with Morfar to the farm to pick out his own chicken. Max and Jack were so excited and cannon wait to spend many a day watching the chickens and collecting eggs. The best part of the whole thing was the picking of names.

Jack, Max and Morfar looking carefully over the selection.

The boys making sure the chickens were okay for the ride home.

Jack with his chicken "Miss Astro..or Miss A"

Max and his chicken "Mavis"

Here are all the ladies: Lucy, Hattie, Miss A and Mavis.

Two of Max's Favorite Things

2010-04-22T17:34:00.000-07:00

I so love Max. The kiddo bring me laughs and joy each day. To continue with this weeks blog focus on Max lets highlight a few of Max's favorite things.

1. Max loves to eat. While this could be a problem, this kid by choice loves to pick a snack from the fridge on his own and he always chooses something healthy. He LOVES peppers, and will eat them like an apple. He also pears, cucumbers, yogurt, turkey, cheese, snap peas, olives and bananas.

2. Max loves to read. He reads all the time and is super intent at looking at the pictures and talking about the pictures.

3. Max loves to dress himself. From shirt to shoes, it is all about choosing what he wants to wear, and he will change his clothes through out the day. Currently he is especially loves some plaid slip on shoes and his starwars shirt.

4. Max has discovered the joy of puzzles. He takes great pride in doing them the first tiem with you.....but then only by himself. He will stand at the kitchen counter and doing puzzle after puzzle, again intently looking and talking about the pictures. His new hobby sure makes things like making dinner and kitchen chores a lot easier. Now that he is entertianed.

5. Max loves his friends. He has begun to name his friends, talk about his friends and you can get him to put shoes on in no time if you tell him that one of his friends are going to be their.

Max is a Joy! How stinking lucky am I to call him son.

A Little Blog Time for Max

2010-04-20T12:26:00.001-07:00

Last week the blog was all about Jack. So this week in fairness to Max our posts will be about him. On Tuesday morning we set out to mix up our routine and joined some friends at Kidz Bounce. A warehouse full of inflatables. Max enjoyed himself and being with friends....but then after twenty minutes he got a little snugly and clingy...I figured he was just tired so I made the kid keep bouncing. Max and Regan always have a good time together.

Our buddy Regan
Max has a little crush on Rowan...and why not...she is too cute.

But now we are home, and Max asked to take a rest (a total rarity) and the poor kid is sporting a fever and cannot get enough of mommy. So onto cuddling, cups of OJ and lots of reading books!

Epic Week for Jack

2010-04-14T21:24:00.000-07:00

Seriously how much big kid stuff can a mom handle in a week? First the riding the bike all by himself and now....his first lost tooth. Tuesday night Jack showed us that in fact his lower tooth was a little wiggly. By the time he walked out of class on Wednesday afternoon that tooth was full on ready to fall out. ( I am convinced and truly grossed out to know that his little hands were in his mouth all day just yanking and tugging on that tooth). Shortly after we got in the car to head home from school he exclaims from the back seat " I pulled it out!" Yup. The tooth is out. Now Jack lays awake far past his bed time waiting for the tooth fairy to come....... this has been a big week for Jack and it only Wednesday!

Look Mom....I'm a Maniac!

2010-04-12T12:54:00.000-07:00

Yup, those were the words out of Jack's mouth when he realized that I had let go and in fact he was riding his bike all by himself. Oh, it is a big day.
Last summer we took the training wheels off of Jack's bike and Jon and Jack tried their hand at learning to ride. But fall came and the bike hit the garage. No more practice. Sunday though, we brought the bike out in the sunshine and Jon and Jack again hit the street for some much improved practice. He was so close. Today though, Jack who stayed home to nurse a low grade fever eventually needed a little activity so we headed outside and jack asked if he could try the bike. Okay, I said. I held on the back, ran along slide and then let go.... I then began to run parralle to Jack and talked with him. Then all a sudden he realized he was doing it on his own and shouted out " look mom, I am a maniac ". That was all it took. From then on he just needed a good shove an doff he went....down the street..smiling and pedaling his little heart out. It is going to be a great summer. Now just to locate and obtain bikes for the rest of the family.

Yeah Fun in the Sun

2010-04-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

Jack had monday and tuesday off this week and so in typical lyons family fashion one of those days was spent "roadtriping". It was off to Bellingham for the day and the result was a fantastic, beautiful day with lots of fun outside. My mom and our little friend Scarlett came along and we got to meet Aunt Lois there for a time too.

We had some lunch, visited Kendras' office and store at Habitat for Humanity and then it was off for the adventure. We visited a great nature preserve with lots of trails, a few animals to visit, a park and a couple of towers to climb.

After that it was back to Kendra's house for the youngest kiddos to nap, Jack played on the computer (hey the kid was on vacation) and mom, kendra and I siped coffee and played some games. Then it was dinner time, a little glass of wine on the front porch and one last round of fetch with Rawgo the dog. Then it was in the car and homeward bound. Thanks for a great day Kendra.

The Whole Fam-Damly

2010-03-30T20:14:00.000-07:00

Yup. The whole freakin family gathered this last weekend. It was great fun. It is rare to have visits from the mid-west/east coast clan but this weekend they all made their way to Jeff and Robins house. We had a great breakfast at our house Saturday morning with Scott/Kathy, the great grandparents, Aunt Stacy and Jon's Parents. Then sunday after church when Jon,Sue and Senya made it to town we had a classic Lyons BBQ. Yum. It was a sweet time to introduce our boys to their great aunts and uncles. And the boys always love to play with cousin Madi. Here are just a few pics from the front yard family photo session.

Uncle Jon, Aunt Sue and Cousin Senya (Minnesota)

Uncle Scott and Aunt Kathy (Maryland)

Robin with her siblings: Jon, Scott,and Stacy along with their parents

Attempt at a family photo

Jack, Max and Cousin Madi

Kiddos with Great Grandpa Chuck

Niave Dreams...Reality Unleashed

2010-03-25T17:33:00.000-07:00

So when I dreamed of myself as a mother and thought about what it would be like to have a kiddo...I will admit that I often pictured my kiddo wearing a fresh pressed button down shirt with rolled sleeves, paired with a great fashion jean and a classic shoe like converse. Pretty much take any kid from a gap commercial or pottery barn ad and that was what I pictured. Oh naive was I.

Any "experienced" mother is laughing her head off right now, and to be honest so am I. As I have been a mother I have had no greater pleasure or had more laughs and true joy then when my children have dressed themselves and been so proud of themeselves. Today was such a day for Max. Yesterday he was excited when I unloaded a box of hand-me-down clothes which happen to contain some Thomas the Train PJs. Today, Max changed out of his mom approved outfit and into his Thomas Shirt and "Pants" shortly before we left for school. Then he emerged from the laundry room with his boots and said " I ready mom. I have a great day." Far be it from me to crush his little independent self (this time). So away we went with our day. All day long, every errand run in Max's much loved Thomas "Shirt and Pants". Yup it was a good day..and my reality FAR SURPASSES my naive dreams.

Spring Training Recap

2010-03-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

So photos are in and as a person who did not go on the trip I will do my best to group photos and add commentary based on the phonecalls that I recieved and the most mentioned instances by Jack. Here goes:

Wednesday: Fly to Phoenix
Jack was super excited and a little nervous about his first (that he can remember) flight. We gave him the play-by-play about what would take place at the airport and on the plane. For Jack info = courage. He did great. Had a good time sitting by Nan and Dad and enjoyed using the zune to watch a couple of his favorite shows. They landed and took a ride " in a bus" to the car rental place where Jack learned he would get to ride in a mini van..which he loved. Then it was off to the hotel and to dinner and then to bed. Good times!

Thursday: Grandma Shirley Day

Awoke and it was off to see Grandma Shirley and aunt Peggy and then head off to breakfast. They ate breakfast at The Good Egg, then back to Grandma Shriley's for the day. Jack had a great time in Shirley's back yard and playing fun games like "hide the gnome". They chowed pizza for dinner and then headed back to the hotel. Jack and Jon went swimming and then enjoyed dessert.

Friday: Game Day One

After breakfast and a walk around the hotel and neighboring shops it was offf to the ball park. They enjoyed watching players at the practice field and set out to get some signatures. They succeded and Jack now proudly displays them in his room. The games was good fun. They had great weather, great seats and who doesn't love a baseball brautwerst.

Saturday: Back to the Ball Park

Breakfast, walk a little swimming and then back to the ball park. A few more autographs, a corn dog and another great game in beautiful sunshine. After the game it was off to "fancy" dinner in celebration of Aunt Peggy's birthday.

Sunday: Swim, Play, Home
Sunday morning while daddy packed the bags, Pop took Jack swimming, which he loved. Then after they checked out of the hotel it was off to Grandma Shirley's for lunch and to spend time together before flying home. Around 4 it was off to the airport, where Jack waved by to the minivan and declared that he wants "to visit lots of places like pop..for a job" He confidently boarded that plane and stayed wide awake the whole way home. Then come 11pm I heard them in the driveway and welcomed home by boys. Yippee.

They had a great time. Good time for dad and son, good time with family, and good time in some sunshine with baseball. Jack can't wait to do it all again.

Spring Training SNEAK PEEK

2010-03-16T09:57:00.000-07:00

The Lyons Men-folk are home. They walked in the door around 11pm Sunday night and I swear that Jack looked like he had aged at least 4 years. Oh how I missed my guys. They truly enjoyed their time with each other, family and baseball fans in the sunshine. Due to the fact that our camera is large an cumbersome (it appears we need to upgrade and downsize..)Jon left the camera at home and we are waiting for the pictures that Nan and Pop took to share the full play by play. But here is a sneak peek at the boys in action.

Jack got Dan Wilson's autograph. We have always been fans of the former Mariners catcher and while Jack had no clue who he was, the rest of the family was excited that we can add a Wilson signed ball to the spring training momento collection.
More fun shots and stories will follow. Stay tuned.

Max and Mommy Fun

2010-03-13T22:35:00.000-08:00

My dad bought tickets to a hockey game in hopes of spending quality time with his grandsons and son in law. But I knew he had an extra ticket and let's face it, Max and I needed a little excitement so I asked if we could bum along. He agreed. Then much to our surprise my sister Heather came in place of her husband with the boys. Bobby had been called to work . (bummer). So it turned into Dad, 2 of his girls and their boys at a Hockey Game. It was fun. Max enjoyed it. We departed in the middle of the 2nd period though because the combination of no nap....and his social personality resulted in him never being close to our seats....and with us springing ahead in the morning...we called it a night. Thanks Dad. Not exactly what you planned, but we certainly enjoyed our time.

The Relaxed Life

2010-03-12T15:53:00.000-08:00

With Jack and Jon away for a few days the house has taken on a surprising relaxed tone. Without work or school to dictate the schedule of the day Max and I have taken it easy and really enjoyed a slower pace and some great one on one time. Today while I was folding laundry Max asked for a snack. I provided and then he told me he was headed to his room. I found him a few minutes later lying in his bed, with his snack and reading one of Jack's sacred Lego magazines. Oh, Max was a happy camper. Shhh. Don't tell Jack.

Mariners= Blahhh, Shriley= Fun Times

2010-03-11T08:38:00.000-08:00

(the following is heartfelt and has nothing to do with the phone call that I got minutes ago threatening to disallow me to claim the lyons last name if a certain blog situation was not immediately rectified)

Let's be honest the real reason the the fam-damly headed to Arizona is to visit Great Grandma Shirley and Aunt Peggy who live there. Any fun that the family may enjoy with thousands of fans and players at spring training will just be "extra".She and she alone is the reason for the planning, the trip, and jack purchasing a sunglasses and a mariners hat. Yup. It's ALL ABOUT GRANDMA SHIRLEY. And our family would have it no other way. We are so thrilled that Jack gets to spend time with her, to see her home and to spend time with Aunt Peggy. Have a great time guys!

And they are off.....

2010-03-10T10:16:00.000-08:00

Yup, the car just pulled out of the driveway. Jack, Jon, Nan and Pop are headed to the airport where they will meet Uncle Nic and Auntie Rae...and then they are SPRING TRAINING BOUND. Jack is so excited about flying for the first time on a plane and for the man time with dad. Have a great time guys.

ps. This is not Jack's first time at spring training. Here is peak at then and now.

The Ride Home

2010-03-04T17:26:00.000-08:00

So the boys and I just returned home from visiting the newly remodeled mcdonalds. The new play equipment kept the boys nicely entertained for some time. Not long after being there they made friends with some other kids. Low and behold they had befriended two kids who happen to belong to a girl I had grown up going to church with. Now she was a couple years older than me and had been good friends with Jon in Jr. High and High School. So the kids played and we chatted. When we climbed back into the car I mentioned to Jack that "that lady in there had been really good friends with daddy when they were in jr.high and high school" ( I did not mention though that she had been daddy's first girlfriend) When I shared this info with Jack he then asked "Well why did dad not marry her?" I responded, " Because they were just friends...and he like me more" ......Jack then respond with a look of shock and disdain...shaking his head he said " really??... (sigh)...whatever."

Yup, that makes a mom feel good. When your own kid can't figure out why your spouse chose you.

I called to share the incident with jon, he assured me that he was still pleased with his choice..phew...

Caught!

2010-03-02T14:08:00.001-08:00

Yup, his ever stealth self got busted this morning.

Also, A quick note about the large blue shirt. Max has longed for a StarWars shirt of his own. Jack has a couple and Max will follow Jack around making comments about the shirt. Yesterday while at Target with the mother in law I was looking in the big kid section for shirts for Jack's upcoming trip. Max who happen to be out of the cart found the rack with lego starwars shirts. While I looked at some options Max, again stealth, decided to take his shirt off, put a shirt on and then placed his shirt on the shelf. He then walked about like he had always owned it and with a big smile. Yup, this mama gave in to the cuteness and he got to get a StarWars Lego shirt of his very own.

Italy 101

2010-03-02T14:01:00.000-08:00

Saturday Night Jon cooked up a feast in honor of our first Spain/Italy Hiking Trip Planning Meeting that is upcoming in September 2011. Now while we are way in advance of actual departure, there is a lot to be learned and planned in the mean time. We are excited because for us it will be our first trip to Europe. But also because it will be a unique experience to travel with three other couples. It is neat because there are four decades represented in the trip. 30s,40s,50s, & 60s. Our fearless leader is Benton and his wife Judy. Old Hats when it comes to European Travel Benton came to dinner with handouts, tour books and even his map. Over a wonderfully tasty Italian inspired dinner that Jon so lovingly slaved over all day Saturday we talked about the ins and outs of our trip. We will meet again every other month to share a meal and to plan some more. I promise I won't bore you with photos or posts from every meeting and meal, but since this was the kick off I deemed it blog worthy.

All in a day

2010-02-18T11:52:00.001-08:00

Occasionally people will say to me as Max is holding my hand and bouncing up and down: "Wow, he is always on the go". And YES, Yes he is. Yesterday was one of those days. Max was bound and determined to keep this mama hopping. Here is just a little recap.

-While I was folding laundry on the kitchen table he decided he was done with his partially eaten yogurt and thus threw it on to the pile of clean clothes.

- While I was taking the recycle out to the large bin , he filled a dump truck with dirty rocks and brought it into the house...and then proceeded to unload them in the downstairs toilet.

- Then while I was on the phone for something important Max had a run in with corner of the antique trunk resulting in a large scrape from his cheek to his eye.

- Just moments before walking out the door to get Jack from school I placed the fully clothed Max on the bottom step with a bag of fruit snacks and told him "sit" while i ran upstairs to use the bathroom. Now let me tell you thanks to being a mom I a quick pee. I was gone for a mere three minutes ...but alas that was enough time for Max. I found him stripped down to his shirt and diaper, running on a track made of foil around the house.

Oh, Max it is all in a day! It is a wild ride being mom to this boy and I wouldn't trade it for anything...but a nap every now and then, would be fun.

Vacation Day Two: Ice Skating

2010-02-16T18:19:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the Olympics Jack has been asking to try his hand at ice skating. (He also asked when we could go ski jumping...)Today was the day. We hit the local rink,minus Max and happen to run into a few friends. I did not hold very high expectations of Jack. Ice Skating can be a bit tricky. But Jack ROCKED. He was patient with himself, persistent and uncharacteristically adventurous. He kept asking if we could stay longer. Long after the friends left there was Jack tooling around the rink with determination. Going longer and longer stretches of not hanging onto the wall. We had a great time together. He asked if we could return tomorrow. Unfortunately no, it is back to school. But we will certainly be rink bound again soon.

Jack and Pals sitting for just a moment

Watching the Zambonie...classic ice skating fun

Took just a short break to refuel with quality snacks

Out for the final lap..look how far off the wall he is.

Vacation Day One : Seattle Adventure

2010-02-15T15:25:00.000-08:00

Jack has Monday and Tuesday of this week off and so we spent Monday on an Adventure in Seattle. We started our morning at The Pacific Science Center, then it was off to ride the monorail. From there we walked to Pike Place Market, enjoyed lunch at "Jack's Fish and Chips". I picked up a beautiful bunch of Market flowers, then it was back to the monorail and then home. The children are adequately tired out and it was a great adventure day. Tomorrow.....ice skating!

Our Valentines Gift to You

2010-02-14T13:13:00.001-08:00

Last night Jon and I had the opportunity to celebrate Valentines with dinner out and attending a lecture. We were Seattle bound. We had tasty dinner at Lola. It was great to sit, enjoy some good food and just be with one another. Then it was off to a lecture at the Moore Theater with our small group from church. Our group has been studying the works of a man named Rob Bell. He was in town with his latest lecture, Drop Like Stars, and he did not disappoint. He is a great speaker, funny and profound.

So on this day of love, we would love to share with you the biggest laugh of the night. Rob shared a real college admissions essay written by a guy named Hugh Gallagher. Gallagher decided that his NYU admission application needed to stand out.....and well it did. Enjoy.

Essay: In order for the admissions staff of our college to get to know you, the applicant, better, we ask that you answer the following question: Are there any significant experiences you have had, or accomplishments you have realized, that have helped to define you as a person?

I am a dynamic figure, often seen scaling walls and crushing ice. I have been known to remodel train stations on my lunch breaks, making them more efficient in the area of heat retention. I translate ethnic slurs for Cuban refugees, I write award-winning operas, I manage time efficiently. Occasionally, I tread water for three days in a row.

I woo women with my sensuous and godlike trombone playing, I can pilot bicycles up severe inclines with unflagging speed, and I cook Thirty-Minute Brownies in twenty minutes. I am an expert in stucco, a veteran in love, and an outlaw in Peru.

Using only a hoe and a large glass of water, I once single-handedly defended a small village in the Amazon Basin from a horde of ferocious army ants. I play bluegrass cello, I was scouted by the Mets, I am the subject of numerous documentaries. When I'm bored, I build large suspension bridges in my yard. I enjoy urban hang gliding. On Wednesdays, after school, I repair electrical appliances free of charge.

I am an abstract artist, a concrete analyst, and a ruthless bookie. Critics worldwide swoon over my original line of corduroy evening wear. I don't perspire. I am a private citizen, yet I receive fan mail. I have been caller number nine and have won the weekend passes. Last summer, I toured New Jersey with a traveling centrifugal-force demonstration. I bat .400. My deft floral arrangements have earned me fame in international botany circles. Children trust me.

I can hurl tennis rackets at small moving objects with deadly accuracy. I once read Paradise Lost, Moby Dick, and David Copperfield in one day and still had time to refurbish an entire dining room that evening. I know the exact location of every food item in the supermarket. I have performed several covert operations for the CIA. I sleep once a week; when I do sleep, I sleep in a chair. While on vacation in Canada, I successfully negotiated with a group of terrorists who had seized a small bakery. The laws of physics do not apply to me.

I balance, I weave, I dodge, I frolic, and my bills are all paid. On weekends, to let off steam, I participate in full-contact origami. Years ago, I discovered the meaning of life but forgot to write it down. I have made extraordinary four course meals using only a mouli and a toaster oven. I breed prizewinning clams. I have won bullfights in San Juan, cliff-diving competitions in Sri Lanka, and spelling bees at the Kremlin. I have played Hamlet, I have performed open-heart surgery, and I have spoken with Elvis.

But I have not yet gone to college.

Bringin' Da Noise, Bringin' Da Funk

2010-02-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

That is right folks our house is about the music as of late all in hope of getting Jack pumped up for his winter activity: Piano Lessons. Jack has always had an interest in music, he appreciates different style of music and he always seems to be boppin' to some tune in his head. Thus we thought piano lessons might be a good ways to tip the old foot in the proverbial pond.It also helps that our pastor intern's wife is a certified music teacher and had some availability. So today was the day. With freshly purchased music book in hand we arrived at Mrs. Alanna's School of Rock aka her home office/music room. The keyboard facing a terrifically decorated wall of musical inspiration. Jack jumped right in and as I listed from the hallway the two of them seemed to have a good time. Mrs. Alanna did her homework and at the end of the lessons I overheard her say "Jack, when we practice hard and learn the basics we can play all kinds of music. You could even play something like this...." Then she busted out the StarWars theme. Follow that with the presentation of a Pokemon sticker for his good work and piano lesson number one was a success. Now comes the reality. 5 days of practice.....we will keep you posted.

Jack is all set with his folder, ready for lessons.

Jack and Mrs. Alanna working on finger position.

Superbowl Sunday

2010-02-08T06:40:00.000-08:00

This last week the Lyons Abode was plagued with the nasty sick head cold that has been making it's rounds. Each family member has battled the snot,coughs and gunk. But illness would not derail the enthusiasm we had for the Superbowl. Sunday morning Jack made his pick: The Saints, and then the boys set out to make decorations. Come game time with decorations on the wall and in hand we settled in to much a few snack and watch the Saints. It was a great game and a good way for this football loving family to say farewell to all those fun Sunday afternoons we shared this season. Now, off to baseball.

Oh the Joy of Being Max

2010-02-04T13:25:00.000-08:00

The picture captures the essance of Max. Fully loving bathtime and being such a ham.We spent a good portion of the afternoon in the bathroom. Max in tub and Mommy reading stories. Good Fun.

Here is a little glimpse of all things Max right now:
- He is Passionate. Whether he be happy or sad it is all out , all the time. There is no mild Max. There is just Max.

- He is in a big kid bed, a big kid carseat, and playing with the notion of going potty on the big potty.

- He can open any door and can be absolutly silent when he is being naughty, thus we have busted out the door knob locks on all the doors.

- He loves to read. He will grab a book and stand in front of you saying "read me, read me".

- He talks non stop. New words everyday, and the kiddo does not have an inside voice.

- He enjoyes playing with his guys (playmobile people) and will have little conversations with them.

- He would be happy if the only thing you fed him was : turkey, cheese, apples and milk.

- He enjoyes playing games, coloring and playdough. He has done a great job of making circles and loves to glue and cut.

Cooking Club

2010-01-31T20:01:00.000-08:00

Well I am finally back on the blog (being ridiculed while off the blog was intense) with a little bit of fun to share. Last night Jon and I went to "cooking club". Really, it is just a glorified eating club at this point ....but we have big dreams. Last Night's menu was selected by Judy. Here is a little recap:

Portobello Stuffed with Corn and Mushrooms
Roasted Tomato Soup
Chicken Paillard with Creamy Parmesan Salad
Molton Chocolate Cakes with Raspberry Sauce

Dinner was hosted at our friends Benton and Judy's home and attended by us and two other couples. Each couple brought and prepared a course. Here are just a few fun pics from our fun and the super tasty food.

yummy tomatoes ready to roast and then made into a super tasty soup

portobello mushrooms ready to be stuffed

I was assigned to take a whack at some chicken breasts. It was my punishment for wearing such an unflattering shirt :)

Jon "tasting" and assessing his soup

Sherri a mess from dredging her chicken in panko crumbs

Susan, Judy and Jon hard at work with soup

Dinner is served. Yum. All of it was so delicious.

It was a great evening with friends.(Don, Benton and Chris, sorry your pictures didn't make the cut...but we enjoyed your company none the less) So much fun to be together, chatting, cooking and enjoying each others company. Another dinner is just weeks away because this is the group of people that Jon and I are headed to Italy with in September 2011. But no worries we are already gathering, planning and eating (of course).

Sleepover Success

2010-01-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

Sunday night was rite of passage night for Jack. He hosted his first sleepover and it was a big success. His best pal Jonathan came and the boys played, enjoyed dinner and then it was pjs and movie time. True to big boy fun they watched "School of Rock" and snacked on brownies and apple slices. Then it was bed time and with a good amount of talking, but no tears the boys eventually called it a night. Have no worries, desperate to get the most play time out of their day....they made their way into our room at 5:10 am. Good Times. Way to Go Boys! Here is to many more sleep overs.

Ode to Pop | Happy Birthday

2010-01-14T07:03:00.000-08:00

What do you give a man who has everything...well everything worth having...how about a little air time on the family blog. HAPPY BIRTHDAY POP. We love you, your grilling meat skills, your willingness to golf with Jon, your sharing wine tips with Meg and the way you lavish love and fun times on Jack and Max. Oh yeah, and we love your passion for sleeveless shirts. Have a great day. We are blessed to call you Pop!

Surprise Man Fun

2010-01-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

Oh the Lyons men are giddy, spring training for mariner's baseball is right around the corner and Jack and Jon are headed there. Yahoo. Last week while lunching with the mother in law I learned that there were rumblings of a trip down to Arizona to visit Grandma Shirley, Aunt Peggy and to attend Spring Training. Like any good wife/mom I immediately asked if "my boys" could go along too. We enjoyed our trip there when Jack was just a baby and I knew that Jack and Jon would have such a great adventure together.What a special dad and Jack time. Arrangements were made and yesterday morning we informed Jack that in a mere 60 days he would be getting on a plane, staying at a hotel, visiting grandma shirley and watching baseball up close and personal. He is so excited... (Jon is too). Now we have 60 days to get Jack indoctrinated with all things Mariner baseball.

Really, We might have to Homeschool.

2010-01-08T06:21:00.000-08:00

Jack is back into the swing of school and here has not been one tear shed. Praise the Lord. He heads into each day with a good attitude and excited. Jon and I were excited for him to head back because we knew that learning to read and recognizing sight words were on the docket and Jack is ready. But after what happen yesterday, I don't know if I am ready...or approve of their methods.

Jack came home with a book he had written. He told me that the instructions were that were that he had to choose a character word from one row of cards ( dad, mom, sister, brother, dog, cat, bird, friend...) then he got to choose long words from another list. Simple and harmless enough, so it would seem. But this is what Jack brought home...careful some of these images and words are hard to take.

Yes, that is me strewn about my bed looking like I just awoke after along long night out and heavy on the sauce.
apparently he has learned , despite my best attempts, that I am motivated by food.
he appears happy with his (lying,false,horrible) description of his mother..look at that smug little smirk.

Where was the teacher? Why didn't she stop this? Me LAZY MOM...I think not ( most of the time ). Ugh I was devastated. We cannot not have this kind of rubbish hanging on the fridge. Jack on the other had thought it was Hysterical...absolutely the funniest thing ever. Here is to having the family's dirty laundry aired...via the Kindergarten writer.

Movin' On Up

2010-01-04T12:06:00.001-08:00

It's a big bed for Max. That is right, we have released the beast and have our fingers crossed that it was the right call. Max was very excited to see the new bed and excited about his new blanket. I have no concerns about bed time...naptime on the other hand may be a different story. Only time will tell. *Oh and that crazy look on Max's face, yeah that is his smile...we are working on that*

Christmas Joy 2009

2009-12-30T07:04:00.000-08:00

So I finally find myself with some time to sit down and attempt to capture the fun,joy and family times that was Christmas this year. This year we made a little shift in our "schedule of activiities" and the verdict is in, we liked it. Here is a very long day by day recap. Grab a cup of coffee, glass of wine or your diet coke. Settle in for the stories and a slide show.

[Christmas Eve]
It started early in the morning, I walked past Jack's room to head downstairs for my coffee when I herd him say " mom...it's christmas eve morning " yup. He had caught on. This year Jack's excitement was in full swing and the kiddo was on overdrive all morning long, just longing for the day to pass so that we could get on with christmas. Around 2 we headed over to Jon's parents house and met his siblings, parents and grandparents for a prechristmas eve service dinner. We dinned on the lyons family traditional pizza and oyster stew and then we put the kids in their "handsome clothes" attempted a family picture and then it was off to the christmas eve service.

After the Christmas Eve service we gathered at my parents house with my siblings, jon's parents, and few old family friends for soup. One of my most favorite memories of growing up was that on Christmas Eve my parents would make lots of soup and invite lots of families from church over. Late into the night on Christmas Eve our little house would be packed with people. I loved it. It was good to be back at my parents house, enjoy some some and be with old friends.

Around 8:30 we headed home to put our kids in their christmas jammies and to set out cookies for Santa. Jack was totally into it. He wanted to leave Santa two cookies, a roll and an orange. We also had to set out apple juice because we were out of milk. But don't worry Jack left a note for Santa explaining the situation. After the kiddos were in bed Jon and I set to work bringing gifts out of hiding and preparing the living room. Then it was off to bed, we knew morning would be fast upon us.

[Christmas Day]

Okay, I admit, I was the first one awake. What can I say I love Christmas. The boys awoke shortly after and thus the day began. Photo infront of he tree then let's dive in. Jack was totally into it. All the gifts, his stocking, loving each and everything he got. Max was also into it. He loved his stocking, but struggled a bit when it was Jack's turn to open gifts. Max loves a present and could have unwrapped all day. Here are some bad photots of some of the well loved loot.

an autographed seattle sounders soccer ball

the new hasselbeck jersey and playing legos. classic jack christmas.

oogly googly machine from grandma shriley

a new bakugan of max's very own

awesome truck trailer and trucks from grandma shriley

After our family time at home we headed to my parents house for Christmas Breakfast and Gifts. As always my mom prepared a delicous spread. Then it was on to gifts. The boys were thrilled with theirs : Jack, Nerf Dart Tag and Max, a new radio flyer trike. Jon and I certainly appreciated all the fun stocking stuffers and Way to go Kendra and Travis. They had our names for the gift and gave us a great Italian cookbook and a tour book of Italy...perfect for us as we have begun planning and saving for a hiking tour of Italy with friends in September 2011.

After breakfast,gifts and some playing with the cousins it was off to the Lyons for more christmas. When we arrived Max was a sleep so we put him in bed, let Maddison and Jack open gifts and the adults then did the long awaited much anticipated Stocking exchange. This year I scored as Jeff, the patriarch of stockings drew my name and gifted to me. I recieved the most enormous stocking ever...filled with all kinds of great stuff including some excellent wine tools and books and I continue to persue my love of good wine. Jack loved the new lego set that Nan and Pop go him as well, he is the envy of all his little friends. After gifts we set out to devour the finger foods that everyone had brought. Tasty as always. Then we played some brain games and called it a night.
It was a good day. Made great by the fact that we get to be with both of our families. So there it is. All the Joy and Chaos that was the Lyons Christmas.

Snowflake Lane

2009-12-22T19:12:00.000-08:00

It has become a tradition for Jack, myself and my Mom to head up to a local event called Snowflake Lane. A local shopping center has a nightly music show that takes place on the sidewalk and involves "snow" that falls from the top of buildings. It lasts only about 15 minutes but is great fun and well done. Saturday night was the night. We donned our rain coats and headed out. Our plan was to have "good" dinner at a restaurant but after we heard "the wait is 2 hours" at four different places we gave in and settled for dinner at McDonalds. Jack was thrilled, mom a little bummed.
After our meal we took our places on sidewalk and enjoyed the show. After the street show we headed to crate and barrel so that Jack could chose this years ornament. The winner... a nutcracker wielding a sword- duh. To call the evening a night we headed back to the golden arches for hot fudge sundaes. Yeah for Snowflake Lane fun.

Urgent Care | Mom's Turn

2009-12-15T14:18:00.000-08:00

Sunday I noticed that my thumb was tender due to a little split near my thumb nail, Monday I noticed that my thumb and my hand felt warm and throbed. Tuesday I awoke to my whole arm throbing and my thumb and hand swollen, tight and extrememly sensitive. So I paid a little visit to urgent care. Here is what my update email to Jon read tuesday afternoon :
________________________________
Just got home.It was a whack fest.
Here is a recap of the morning.

A couple of shots…me passing out … the doctor having his way with the scalpel on my thumb….A massive bandage… 4 prescriptions….recommendations for splint and a sling……

The pain was legit…and so was my visit. The results are in = Nasty Staph infection.

Good times.

:> the wounded wife.
____________________________________________
So there it is. Yeah staph. It appears I will be on antibiotics for the next 12 days,
It is recommended that I wear the bandage and a sling (to help with the pain) for the next 4 days....and then we should be good with topical cream and band aids till complete healing in 10 days.

Good thing the wrapping is done.

Jingle Bell Run in Bellingham

2009-12-13T14:02:00.000-08:00

On Friday the boys, my mom, and my friend Shelly and her son Jonathan all loaded into my parents car and headed north to Bellingham. We had been invited to participate in the Jingle Bell Run to support my cousin Jocelyn and the raise money for the arthritis foundation. We had a great time, great fun on the walk/run and are so appreciative to Kendra for letting us invade her space for the weekend. Here is a little photo look at all the fun.

FRIDAY NIGHT: Fun times at Kamp Kendra. Exploring, Playing, Movies for kiddos and beverages for mommys. And really does it get better than sleeping in sleeping bags on aero bed....jack says no.

The boys had a great time playing Indiana Jones in Auntie Kendra's "Cave" basement.

In jammies and ready for a christmas movie.

Shelly and I are set for the night.

My rocking sister who so genrously opened her home...oh and thanks to her husband Travis too, who let us invade.

SATURDAY MORNING: The air was cold but not too bad. The kids did great participting in the 2 mile walk and Kendra and I got do the 4 mile run. After the event we went to Jocelyn and Eriks house for soup. It was a great morning.

Jack and Mom sporting their walk/run numbers and Max sporting his unamusement that he would not be allowed to be out of the stroller.* our funky scarves showed that we were on Jocelyns support team. Yeah "part of the cure".

Adorning the shoes with bells.

Shelly and Jonathan all set to go.

Mom all bundled up and ready to walk with the kiddos- Thanks Mom.

There was a great turn out for the event. We are somewhere in that mass of people.

Kendra and her dog meet up after the run.

This should be interesting

2009-12-10T17:08:00.000-08:00

On Friday , Jack, Max, myself, my mom, my friend Shelly and her son Jonathan are headed up to Bellingham. While we are excited to spend the night at "Kamp Kendra" and be entertained by my sister and her husband the real purpose is to participate in the Jingle Bell run. Kendra and I will run, the rest will walk. This sounded great a month ago when we all signed up but due to the recent weather...well it shoud be interesting. Check out the forecast for Saturday:

Did you see it...SNOW...now that would be super fun. (sarcasim)

ZooLights

2009-12-09T05:42:00.000-08:00

This last weekend we had our friends the Garnes Family join us for the evening. Doug brought all the fixings for fantastic homemade pizza. Yum. After everyone was fed it was time to bundle up (ridiculous ear flap hats and all) and hit the road. We made our way down to our favorite zoo for ZooLights. The whole zoo is wrapped in lights.It was a beautiful frigid walk around the zoo and then we ended the evening with some good, super rich hot chocolate. Family Christmas Outing #1- Checked off the list.

* Look at that Doug, after 6 years, your family finally made the blog*

The Tree is Up

2009-11-30T16:25:00.000-08:00

The tree is up earlier this year than in years past. The reason: a great artificial, fully lit tree was dropped on our doorstep. Now there was one little glitch with this great new tree passed on to us by Jon's parents...it was nine feet tall our ceilings are eight feet tall. As it sat in it's bag in the middle of our living room we thought thru some options many of which included a hack saw. But alas after some investigation we discovered that we could just leave the bottom section off and it would work. OH, I was happy. See I don't mind going to the local tree farm and picking out a tree, it is very fun..but what I don't like is putting up or taking down the lights, which by default was my job. But not this year. The tree went up and it was time to decorate. This year the whole family got in on the job.(usually I kick the boys out and decorate the tree to mommy's liking while watching white christmas, but not this year) The boys loved it, the tree looks great and it was so much fun that Jack felt compelled to rush away and put on his Christmas jammies.

So Here is to kicking off a season all about anticipation, joy and family.

Olympic Fever

2009-11-28T21:33:00.002-08:00

Jon and I are so excited for the upcoming olympics. We have caught olympic fever....and were so inspired to join in the fun. Check out the routine we have been working on. * Make sure the volume on your computer is turned up.

2009-11-28T21:33:00.001-08:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

GiveThanks

2009-11-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

There is much to be thankful for this year. Our family was able to spend the day together, eating,playing and celebrating.

Our morning began with Uncle Travis and Auntie Kendra joining us for breakfast, watching the parade and making items for the days feast. Kendra and I got to sit with the boys while Travis and Jon did their thing in the kitchen.

After the parade we made our way down to the hospital to welcome our new neice Avery. Born to my sister Heather and her husband Bobby. Mom and Baby are doing well. Jack loved getting the chance to hold Avery and Max loved her little nose. Congrats Bobby, Heather, Robby and Gavin...what a way to spend Thanksgiving.

After the hospital it was off to Feast with the family at Jon's parents house. It was a good spread with lots of friends and family. My favorites this year...cranberries and Jon's tasty green onion biscuts. Yum

Thanksgiving Crafts

2009-11-24T16:02:00.001-08:00

Tuesday Jack had a half day at school due to confrences. With the boys home together that afternoon I thought maybe we should make a a simple little turkey craft and talk about what we were thankful for. The boys really enjoyed the craft and turned out some great turkeys.

Then Jack decided turkeys were not enough so he made: 4 pilgrims, 4 native americans, 1 mayflower, 1 thanksgiving table and 4 "scenes" for them. He then requested a box so that he could make all the pictures stand up. He then asked if I would make a sign and I happily abliged him. Wow, had a great time and I as his mama was super impressed by his creativity and persistance.

Jack and his rockin' Thanksgiving tribute

The Mayflower

A Pilgrim finding land

Hunting for food

A Thanksgiving Meal.

From our family to yours Happy Thanksgiving!

Friday Fun Day

2009-11-23T18:55:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I had the most amazing day with my sister Kendra and our friend MaryBeth. Here is how it all went down. A month ago I found out that my favorite singer Brandi Carlile was going to be doing an intimate acoustic concert and I was able to get 3 tickets. It just happen to be Kendra's Birthday and so we made it an all day affair.
Part One | Unique Concert

We arrived at the radio station to find that they are fantastic hosts. They welcomed us, had a nice food spread and a fantastic view too boot. We waited in this great room for about a half and hour with other guests (only about 25 other people)Then we were ushered into a lobby area with three rows of chairs, Brandi and her Band (ie two tall bald guys with guitars and a cello player). The lights went down, the record light went on and so did she. She played some songs and in between answered questions asked by the radio host. Her singing was AMAZING. In a room like that it was so awesome to just hear the true tone....incredible. Kendra, Beth and I just sat there in pure bliss. After her songs she then met us, signed posters and took pictures. It was great...well the picture not so much, but alas it is the radio station picture girl's fault. oh well. Listen in for yourself if you want right here. Click Here and push the play button.

Part Two | Deals, Drinks and Dinner

After the concert we hit the town, scored big at a huge old navy sale and then hit a great resturant for some food and drinks. We then headed up to Queen Anne in Seattle to have dinner with Genevive. She and Kendra were roomates the year before Kendra and Travis got married. At G's house we had some good laughs, great food and tasty cake. It was good fun.

Part Three | Mommy's hit the Movies
After dinner I said good-bye to Kendra and Beth who were both headed back towards Bellingham. I then met up with some ladies from church and took in a late showing of NewMoon, the latest in the Twilight series, based on books that held me captive last year. It was a great flick and perfect end to a great day.

Suprises

2009-11-18T17:24:00.000-08:00

I have been delinquent once again with blog posting..but to catch you up hre our the little surprises that have brough excitment to the lyons household.

[Suprise] Ear Infection
Friday night brought down Jack with a fever and Saturday morning started to early with some serious tears and complaints of the ear nature. The result Jack's first ear infection of the season. We checked into the nearby urgent care first thing saturday morning, got some meds and then spent the rest of the weekend at Camp Couch.What can be better than snuggled in, legos, story tapes and mom and dad at your beckon call.

[Suprise] Max sits still
Max has become obsessed with "projects" and all manner of glue, scissors and paper.He will sit for long periods of time making projects.He is very serious about his work and loves to show you each and every new aspect.

[Suprise] Rawgo
Auntie Kendra and Uncle Travis suprised us with pictures of their cute new Labradinger Dog "Rawgo". Jack and Max are sooo jealous and were very disappointed to learn that the dog will not be living with us, but rather Kendra and Travis. Jack has begun to yet again request a dog...and has settled to have this picture as my desktop image...for now at least.

[Suprise] HotCocoa Fun Day
After school today I suprised the boys with some hot chocolate and a trip to the park. We bundled up and joined some friends to enjoy cocoa and the crisp air. It was a good day.

Snapshot of Daily Life

2009-11-11T16:07:00.000-08:00

So here are just a few pictures of what the day to day life at the Lyons house looks like.

[ Max ]

is two and all of it's "exploring his independace" glory. He is testing his independance by needing to constantly get himself his own cup of ice water. We frown on this because it usually results in a huge wet mess on the floor. But he has figured out to lift the chair just right so that I cannot hear it being drug across the floor. He does the chair move is seconds...and it is the sound of ice dropping into the cup that gives his antics away.

[ Jack ]
...just being Jack and wearing his snowsuit in November...when the sun is shining and leaves litter the yard. I am just relieved that all his snowsuit wearing fun is contained to the back yard.

Big Game Fun

2009-11-08T19:38:00.000-08:00

Sunday morning started like any other at our house. Jon was eating breakfast and reading the paper, I was checking facebook while I drank my coffee...but then our day got great. My aunt announced via facebook that she had two tickets to today's Seahawks game..and I jumped at the offer. Jon headed to church to meet the boys (who had slept over at his parents house) and I jumped into the car to go get the tickets which came with this awesome green hat that Jack loved...and placed carefully next to his bed once he returned home. After church Jon and Jack loaded into the car and headed to their first ever football game together. Jon and Jack got lunch found their way to the seats and settled in for the afternoon. The seats were great, the game was good and Jack and Jon both returned home tierd....and with horse voices. It was a great experience for the guys...Thanks so much Aunt Billie for the tickets.

*poor quality picks from Jack's very own camera *

Max Says....

2009-11-03T13:18:00.000-08:00

Lately Max has been attempting to use more and more words. Hooray! However it takes a keen ear and a good understanding of context in order to decipher exactly what he says. Today I stood at Costco with Max and little girl I occasionally watch do a bit of shopping. I had parked the cart and was looking intently at an item. Max started to chatter....then he became louder..I like any good mom was able to momentarily tune him out and focus on my business. But then I could no longer ignore him as he had gotten incredibly loud and much to my joy he was yelling " Bitch..Bitch..Bitch" I kid you not, that is what it sounded like he was saying. People began looking at us and luckily for myself and onlookers I noticed that Max was pointing.."Ah, yes... CHIPS..those are CHIPS Max" I said loudly. A few onlookers started to snicker..and I went about my shopping. Ah the delight of a two year old learning to talk.

Halloween Happenings

2009-11-01T07:19:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that our house loves Halloween. It is my favorite because it kicks off the holiday season and a time were celebration is never more than four weeks away. This years Halloween happenings included Jack's class party, Trick or Treating at daddy's office, and hosting our annual Trick or Treat Dinner party. Grab the candy bucket and settle in for the recap and photo show.

ClassParty
Max and I got to join in the fun and help with Jack's class party. The kids wore costumes, did a couple spider crafts and played some games. Jack loved the party atmosphere and Max loved being one of the big kids. It was a good time.

Daddy's Office
Right after the party it was into the car, we were off to daddy's office for trick-or-treating. Microsoft goes all out and it was a real halloween hulubalu when we got there. We got to go see lots of cool decorations in the buildings and picked up a good amount of candy from each hallway and office. Jack especially loves to see Jon's office and the special badge that visitors get to wear. Max was a little taken aback with all the people and got several comments on his costume.

Trick-or-Treat Dinner
We hosted yet again our annual Trick-or-Treat dinner party. As always it was lots of fun. We invited family and some friends to join us for a simple low key dinner and then we head out into the neighborhood for the candy goods. It wase very fun to lots of Jack and Max's friends with us. Jack was totally into it this year. He was on a mission...get the house first. While still being poliet, Jack attacked each house using the fastest approach and departure routes. Max on the other hand took to every other house with a slow and relaxed pace. Jon and I took turns at the end of the party line with our little yoda. We returned home with tuckerd kids who dove into those buckes. Yet again neighborhood provide this mama with a dangerous amount of goodies that now sit in a pumpkin atop the fridge.

I think we need a bigger kitchen...I love having people over for a party.

All the kiddos ready to hit the streets..all the moms and dads capture the fun

Uncle Nic and Auntie Rachel were able to join the party. Very fun.

The after-glow of a night well done.

Really do you need an explanation? Being Mom is good.

Bright White

2009-10-27T12:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Max had a dentist appoinment. He rocked it. He loved the "magic chair", the "super straw", "mr.water" and the "tooth tickler". We take the kids to a fantastic pediatric dentist,she and her staff are so excellent. Max had no hesitation in doing exactly what the hygentist asked him to do including pictures of his teeth. At the end of the appoinment he was so excited abou this clean teeth he kept yelling "thank you teeth" as we walked out of the office and down to the car. Even the mundane is exciting to this kiddo.

Fun Times | Weekend Recap

2009-10-26T15:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a busy one here at the Lyons and unfortunately the camera only made it to one happening. Here is a little play by play:
Friday was Jon's Birthday. In honor of that Jon's parents took us to a very nice dinner at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse in Bellevue. O so tasty. It was great to share the evening with each other and super great that the boys where home and having a great time with auntie Kendra.
Saturday morning was spent with auntie kendra checking off the typical to do list, including costco shopping. Then it was off to soccer. Thanks so much to our friends Dale and Susan for taking the time to come hang out on the sidelines and cheer him on. After soccer we came home, warmed up and the boys ate dinner. It was time for this mama to head out for the long awited Brandi Carlile concert. You may recall that last February I was able to attend with my mom, kendra and our friend marybeth. I am a big fan and was so excited to be able to go her tour's last show here in seattle. Kendra, MaryBeth and I had a great time at the show. Such an amazing songwritter, musician and singer.

Sunday morning we got a spontaneous invite to go up to bellingham to see my cousin in a production of Your a Good Man Charlie Brown. Immediatly following church we hopped into the car and drove northward. The show was so great. My cousin played Snoppy and in my bias opinion stole the show. Then it was off to have some dinner and see kendra and travis' new house. Then back on the road to put two very tired boys to bed.
It was a good weekend.

Props to the Daddy

2009-10-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

While mama was away this weekend- the "men" played. Jon and the boys had a great time at home (so I heard). They attempted Jack's soccer game-but it was rained out, they watched Return of the Jedi, played outside, had pumpkin pie with a "bucket" of cool whip on top and THEY MADE A FORT. When I walked in the door sunday morning I was greeted with hugs, kisses and monster fort in the living room. It was so awesome. Jon had brought the ladder in the house, gathered up all the big blankets and Jack even made signs. Including: no eating in the fort, no smoking or guns in the fort, and finally NO GIRLS. The fort stayed up till late Sunday night. Way to go Daddy way to play!

Sisters " Working" Weekend

2009-10-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

I awoke before dawn Saturday morning, hit starbucks and then hit the road. I was Bellingham bound to spend the day with my youngest sister Kendra. Kendra is the rockin' Resource Development Director for Whatcom County's Habitat for Humanity. This weekend was her big Auction and Dinner. I arrived shortly after 7am to lend my support, work for her and to cheer her on. She did a great job. It was so well organized that it was easy to work, accomplish tasks and even be a little ahead of schedule. As the older sister it was great to watch Kendra in her element, in her groove and doing what she is so gifted at. The event was great and I had a great evening with Kendra. As I crept out of her house at 6am sunday morning I could hear her snoring away in her room...good for her. She worked so hard. Stay tuned. Next weekend we get to play together..big time.

who knew that it took hours to set out silent auction items

Okay, take a deep breath. Let's get our party on.

A packed room = Lots of money for Habitat for Humanity. Awesome.

Getting her volunteers all caught up on proceedures.

Shortly after 10 Kendra finally gets to sit: with a glass of wine. Take note of her "post event" footwear.

My Pride and Joy

2009-10-16T17:01:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official Max is my second. How might an innoncent on looker know this. Just look at how this kid is dressed. And to answer the question that is in your head, Yes, I let him out of the house like this.

I had been doing laundry the night before and shock of all shocks the basket was still downstairs when we got dressed for the day. I dressed Max and then asked him to get his shoes. When I returned to the room he had put on his rain boots and I found Jack's shirt and put that on as well. Oh, was he proud of himself. So pleased. Due to his joy in his own actions I let him keep on his get up and took him out to do all manner of errands. We have come a long way...when it comes to what I let out of the house.

Tis Pumpkin Time

2009-10-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

On Friday Max and Mom "spook-ified" the front stoop but even though lights were hung and a friendly ghost greets you at the front door we did not yet have the pumpkins. So today after school we carved our pumpkins. Jack did a great job digging out the guts and drawing the face he wanted on the pumpkin. His is spooktacular with 5 eyes and jagged teeth. Max loved his pumpkin and carried it all around the house saying pump-KIN at the top of his lungs. He was completely enamored with the lid.. We carved a simple set of eyes and a nose on his and thought we were done. But no, he was admit that we put ears on his pumpkin, so we did. Now our front porch is just right.

Birthday Part 2 | Gift Debackal

2009-09-30T15:11:00.000-07:00

Shortly after Jon got home last night we had the birthday dinner : Subway sandwhiches. Jack of course could not focus on eating, he had spotted the big gift and desperatly wanted to get to the business of opening gifts. Who can blame him, he is 6. We moved into the living room and opened the first gift, from Max, a great starwars puzzle with a Yoda figure. Big hit. Then game the great big box. Even as I set it down in front of him heard a familiar shake inside and got excited at the idea of legos. He tore open that paper to reveal a huge set of Agent Legos. Yeah! So excited. We quickly put Max to bed and then gathered back in the living room to open and asssemble the set. (* Jon and I were so excited about Jack's gift. If you don't already know legos are super spendy. The box Jack is displaying is an $80 set....i found it though on the clearance table at Fred Meyer though a couple of weeks ago for only $20.00 - Awesome Find)

Here is where the gift went south. We opened the box and dumped it onto the floor to find a pile of "crap" spill out. A miscillancious collection of kenx, an old cordless phone battary, some garbage and a mere 15 legos. Shocked does not begin to describe how I felt. What?!?! Someone obviously purchased the set, took out the goods, filled the box with crap, sealed it, and then returned it. UGH, the nerve.

Obviously Jack was devestated, as you can see by the blurry picture of a sobbing Jack, attempting to be consoled by Jon. I was furious. I snapped a few pics for "proof", threw the items back into the box , grabbed the recipt and my kiddo and we went to the store. Pronto!

We returned it no problem, but as we walked to the toy section I had to explain to Jack that we could not replace the set with a similar sized box (that was just out of the birthday budget) and he would have to choose a smaller set, for the same amount of money. Jack understood and did a great job carefully thinking about what he wanted. We returned home with a lego Indiana Jones set. Jack was happy, Jon and I got a good laugh..and we learned you best open a box of "good deal legos" before you buy.

Today is the day....Jack has waited for!

2009-09-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

We started the morning with Jack's favorite breakfast: Starbucks for a doughnut and hot chocolate. He takes after his mama and likes a good sugary start to the day.

Then it was off to school. As he bounded into the classroom I knew the teacher would have her hands full with a kiddo super psyched about his day. At 2pm Max and I went to school to deliver cupcakes and found Jack wearing a fantastic "birthday" hat and sporting a number of birthday stickers. Max was invited to sit with Jack at his desk as his class sang to him and as they ate cupcakes. Jack loved it.

After school it was off to subway, jack's choice for birthday dinner. We picked up sandwhiches and brought them home......part two will be revealed one daddy gets home...stay tuned.

A New Kind of "Fun"

2009-09-28T05:32:00.000-07:00

Let's just say this....I hate to run. Not a fan, never been good at it, it is hard on my body. But with that said, Sunday morning my sister Kendra, some of my lady friends and myself ran a 5k at a beautiful beach, Alki. The morning was sunny but super chilly when we first arrived. But by the time the race started the wind had settled and lets be honest by the end of the first mile, the breeze was just great. I ran with Kendra, she and I chatted, planned a 5k for her company and met our own personal run goals. It was good. After we all finished we hit a great local spot for some super tasty and well deserved breakfast. It was such a fun morning with friends....so fun that (drum roll please..) I just might find myself running again.

--stay tuned, later in the week there might be some action shots...if Kendra can figure out how to get them off the phone.

Tears Be Gone

2009-09-25T16:31:00.000-07:00

Well it appears that all one needs to do to nip the whole crying before school habit jack has was to post about it. Thursday and Friday Jack rocked it. He did great. We even changed the routine up a bit friday and I drove him to school so that I could go to bible study right after and he rolled with it. He has asked to stay after school each day with a friend to play on the play ground and (drumroll please) today he came home with NO food in his lunch box. Yippee...but I will hold my breath because now it is the weekend and we have to start back over again come monday...but for now...we are two days tear free. It looks like StarWars episode 4 may be viewed next weekend.(fingers crossed)

-ps. thanks to all the kind "moms" who wrote this mama encouraging emails sharing the trials and tribulations that you all expreinced in your years of parenting...they were good for a laugh and good contained great advice.

Status Update | Jack & School

2009-09-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

Well, we are into our second week of school....and it is a lot more difficult than we anticipated. Jack rocked it the first week. While nervous, he did not shed one tear on school property. All of that has changed with the second week. Monday = great tears, Tuesday = great tears, Wednesday= great tears. It is the classic child crying, mother speaking reassuring words as she untangles him from her leg and shoves him through the open door whilst saying " have a great day, I know you will do great". Jack's teacher is just the right amount of love/buck it up. She does a great job of encouraging Jack's natural leadership in the class and she assures me that he collects himself moments after he is in the door. Lunch continues to be a bit of struggle, as it is unstructured time...and thus he has time to "miss mom". We had grand plans for lunch meals...but alas he eats mearly one bite. But this lunch drama seems to be on the upswing as of today...with reports that he had a better lunch table demenor and was quickly engaged out on the playground. AHHH Mothering. I knew that it would be hard to have my kiddo at school all day, but I didn't realize how much my heart would hurt knowing that he feels much anxiety about learning the new grove of school. I know that in a week or two all of this will be behind us...and I also know that Jon and I and our "anxious genes" did this to our kiddo :) and we should be a bit surprised.But for now there is an ache while Jack is away and Max and I find ourselves praying for Jack through out the day and at the same time and excitement for the fun he will have once he can get over this. What I can say about this whole ordeal..is that it appears that Jack is at a great school. As we walk to school teachers of all kind call him by name, speak kindly and encouragingly to him and me, and there is a real sense of inclusion and family as I see all students engaging teachers with hugs and enthusiasm. While not one of our more uplifting blogs...this is life at the Lyons for now....and per request...we are keeping you posted. Should you find extra time in your day at 8:25 and 11:03 say a little prayer for Jack those are his transition times :)

While Jack's Away

2009-09-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

It seems that Max has settled in nicely to playing by himself while Jack is away at school. It entertains himself by dressing up in all manner of star wars gear to do even the simplest of tasks. Max will be Yoda or has he calls himself "Doda" for Halloween and is getting much use out of his costume already. He is often bummed when we have take off the costume for naptime.

He is also found much thrill in wearing Jack's Darth Vadar mask while Jack is away.

First Day of School | Yeah Jack

2009-09-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

Well today was the big day. The day we have awaited. Jack began all day kindergarten at the school just down from our house. There was much nervousness over the last several days as we talked about the big day but Jack rocked it. This morning he awoke, came downstairs fully clothed, backpack on and said " who wants to feed a kindergatner...I am ready to eat". He had great enthusiasm this morning and as we walked to school he handled his nerves like a champ. We walked into the school and gathered with all the other K students in the gym. Then after all the students arrived they lined up by class, waved to all the parents and headed out the door. With a little look of trepidation Jack followed the line, but there were no tears. I only got slightly misty after he was out the door. I am so excited to pick him up and to hear all about his day. We will keep you posted.

First Soccer Game

2009-09-12T18:12:00.000-07:00

Today the sun shone bright and hot as it was opening day for soccer. With two practices under his belt and a little time with dad in the back yard we hit the field ready to be aggressive, run hard ALL THE TIME, and have fun. Jack and the Ken-spect Cobras did a great job. His first time out on the field he played defender and after being reminded one time what direction he was headed he took his job very seriously. His next time out the coach placed him as goalie. He did a really nice job there and actully stopped a few good shots. No one scored on him...so that is huge success. When he came of the field he was really excited and said he had a good time. Match 1 = Success.

Max and Daddy had a great time watching and cheering Jack on.

Highlights: Soccer and Sunday School

2009-09-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

Last week both boys had "firsts" that resulted in big fun.
Jack took the practice field for his first time playing soccer. It appears that he has a great coach (soccer ball tatoo and all). He is passionate, great with the kids, and just that right blend of funny and serious. Jack looks so great in his cleets, "slick" shorts and high socks and come game day he will be sporting a great shirt with Morfar's company logo on the front. How fun is that. While there is much enthusiasm...there is not a lot of skill at this point, but that is okay because it is our first go round and it gives Jon a good reason to insist that he and Jack spend quality time in the backyard. Jack is working on running (all the time) and "being aggressive" and getting after the ball.

On Sunday at church the kiddos "moved-up" to the next sunday school class. That meant that Max moved out of the nursery and into a "real" class. There was no hesitation on his part when Jon walked him down the hallway and into his class. He assurredly waved good bye with no tears. When Jon returned to pick him up, Max came running over and pulled Jon to look at his project. He showed any and every one who would look down, his prized Sunday school project. And there were big grins when we placed it on the fridge. It appears that we have a fan of Sunday school, glue and projects. Fun times lay ahead.

Laundry Find

2009-08-31T16:15:00.000-07:00

It was laundry day here at the Lyons house. (Yes, it is blog worthy..it happens so infrequently..)Today I laughed out loud when I pulled Max's load from the was to find the bottom of the washer filled with toys. It appears that it is Max's pockets that I need to be searching, not Jon's.

money, two lego guys, yoda's head, two lightsabers, one lego, one tazer gun, one Bible school buddy, lego hat.

Summer Farewell | Seabrook

2009-08-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

We decided to say a formal farewell to summer and hello to the start of school with one final trip. A little three day get away with Jon's parents to the beach town of Seabrook. It appeared picture perfect online and I had heard raves from friends so I went with high expectations. We were not let down. It was fantastic.

Day One
We arrived to find a very cute house, comfortable and family friendly. It had great proximity to the park where we spent the evening walking around, playing in the field, park and making s'mores at the community fire pit.

Day Two
We awoke, had delicious breakfast and then hit the beach. The boys loved the sand.We drew in the sand, flew a kite and enjoyed the sounds and the smell of the ocean.
That afternoon we borrowed bikes from the bike tent and biked around the neighborhood. Seabrook is filled with great houses, full of character and each with charming names. We weather was perfect, with just the right about of cool in the air.

Day Three
We awoke the final morning to clouds and cool, but still could enjoy a good walk around the neighborhood and the park before we ate our fish and chips lunch and headed home. We had a great mid-week getaway and hope to get back to Seabrook very soon.

Bellingham Road Trip | The Fair

2009-08-20T07:04:00.000-07:00

Wednesday morning the boys and I set out early to go to the fair...in BELLINGHAM, oh just a mere 2.5 hours away. Why you ask. Well because my little sister Kendra has worked her tail off over the last few weeks and this week to host the Habitat for Humanity | Build at the Fair event. We wanted to take a peek, support Kendra and visit some animals, so off we went. Kendra's booth(s) looked great. The boys and I signed "studs" at the house and then got to visit the fair with Kendra. The kittens, baby pigs and goats were absolute favorites. Then it was off to grab some lunch and settle into the grandstands to watch the draft horse demonstation, one of my personal favorites.AFter that it was off to sit in a hum-v, decorate tiles at the home depot booth, sit on a sheffif motorcycle and to the rides. Ahh yes rides. Auntie Kendra was nice enough to sponsor the rides. She and Jack ventured down the gigantic slide, through the "crazy house" and on the tea cups. Jack and I enjoyed the "screaming dragon rollercoster". Very fun. Max all this while sat content in his stroller watching the fun. After rides, it was back to work for Kendra and the boys and I finished up with some cotton candy, a snow cone and watching the "kids on unicyles" show. It was a great day, beautiful, hot weather and spending time with Kendra.

Happy Gotcha Day Max !

2009-08-11T17:08:00.000-07:00

{hit the play button and turn up your speakers}

It was a year ago to day that Jon and I anxiously sat in our hotel room in Guatemala and waited for the call...the call that would say that our Max was down stairs in the lobby. The day was surreal. To finally be able to meet and to hold and to take home the little boy we had prayed for and loved from a far. This morning, as I type he is sitting across the table from me (in the exact same jammies he wore down there) eating a bowl of cheerios, talking to a lego guy and giving me the biggest milky grins every now and then. Max brings such joy to our lives. He has grown so much in the year that he has been home, He is not a baby, he is a kid....a kid who makes the Lyons house messier, louder, and oh so great. God knew exactly what he was doing when he placed Max Armando in our family. We are so greatful and feel so blessed that he is our son and we are his family.

Tonight we will celebrate "Gotcha Day" with a dinner of carne asada, corn on the cob (max's favorite) spanish rice, and dessert will be Tres Leche cake....yummy...and I suppose this mama should get to cooking.

Thanks Late Tuesday...for the tunes used with the video

Double Date | Lego Style

2009-08-05T18:40:00.000-07:00

Late Sunday afternoon Jack and I departed on a double date with his good friend Jonathan and his mom Shelly. We went to the much longed for Lego store at Bellevue Square. Jonathan and Jack were both so excited and were at a loss as to where to start looking. At first Jack thought that he would "fill a cup", you purchase a cup and then can fill it with any random lego pieces that you want. But soon after our cup was full Jack noticed that Jonathan was going to purchase a set of StarWars Lego magnets/guys that included Yoda, Count Duku and Mace Windew...so Jack also opted for that set. With both boys adequately lego-ed it was off to dinner. Of course since the evening was about the boys...we dined at Red Robin. It was such a great night of good Jack and Mom time. All night Jack wanted to hold my hand or say nice things to me..he got the whole date thing....which actually make this mama a little nervous...come 25...when I finally let him date.

Showing off their new lego loot

Boys ready for fries

Jonathan and his mom Shelly

as per mom and jack tradition we took one nice photo and one crazy photo. the crazy photo is always our favorite.

"We went out last night..."| Girls Night

2009-08-02T12:42:00.000-07:00

I am not ashamed, my family listens to country music, and we enjoy singing along. With that in mind my mom, WHO ROCKS!, surprised my sisters and I by getting us tickets to the hotest country concert in Washington. We got to enjoy it this weekend. The Sun City Carnival Tour Show includes: Kenny Chesney, Sugarland, Montgomery Gentry, Miranda Lambert and Lady Antebellum. With such a line up my sisters and I were ecstatic to spend the day together with great music. The show started at 4 in the afternoon and did not end till 11pm. It was a great time. Thanks mom! Here is a little play by play photo recap:
2:30 pm | outside the stadium hydrating and fueling up for the show

We had great seats. Perfect view of the stage, and the stadium was packed

Mom said that since were grown-ups she would treat us to one grown up beverage. Nothing like sharing a beverage and loud music with your mother.

Prego Heather was sporting the water though!

Mom o- so embarrassed to be captured on film (and now on the blog)

Happy girls just prior to Sugarland's performance. They are the best.

Um, yes that would be kenny chesney suspended above the crowd.

Us "McNabb" ladies could have partied all night long.

Super Fun- Thanks mom, can't wait to do it again next year (wink..hint, hint)

"Cool" Cabin in the Woods

2009-07-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

With the weather here being in the 100's we have been seeking alternative locations to spend our day other than our house. Today we were lucky enough to be invited to our friend becca's cabin - in the woods - right along the river - enough said. We were there. As we pulled out of Maple Valley at 11:00 this morning the car temp read 93....when we pulled into the wooded respit of Becca's cabin the car temp said 82, ahh sweet relief. We enjoyed a day of playing in the woods, mom's relaxing on the porch and then cooling off in the river. Jack was fearless when it came to the river and would ride with any adult who would take him. Max even enjoyed the tube once. The river was frigid...but oh so refreshing. What a great day. Thanks Becca for once again opening your cabin.

As fantastic as our day was...all the cool of the river wore off as we pulled into our drive way were the car temp read as follows:

Yes, my friends that reads 106...IN FLIPPIN' Washington...I don't think so.

Stay-cation Day Six | Hike

2009-07-26T15:08:00.000-07:00

On Saturday to beat the heat we hit the mountains. We invited my parents to join us as we hiked to Denny Creek and the "Waterslides". It is a great place on the river. There were lots of people. We enjoyed a picnic on the large rocks then we hit the water. Jack and Jon explored all over, even climbing up to the waterfalls. Max enjoyed splashing in the water and throwing rocks. What a great way to finish off staycation and to beat the heat.

Stay-cation Day Five | Dump Day

2009-07-26T15:00:00.001-07:00

It is Lyons family tradition that every vacation envolves a dump day. A day when we clean out the garage. Friday was the day and it was great. The garage looks fantastic- thanks jon for all your hard work. Jon and Jack were able to take pop's truck, load it up and take a little trip to the dump. Jack loves helping when it comes to using the truck and loves getting to spend time with just dad in the truck. To cap off a day of hard work they both enjoyed an icee....ah sweet. Good work, Good fun.

Stay-cation Day Four | Golf

2009-07-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

While there are not images to capture the action of day four it was a great one. In the morning we had Grandma Shirley to the house to enjoy scones and coffee. Then shortly after noon Jon hit the links with his dad. Always a fan of spending time with his dad he also loves golfing. When they made it to the 18th hole the rest of the family was there to watch. Then we all had dinner at the club. Day four, a good day.

Stay-cation Day Three | Safeco and City Day

2009-07-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

We originally had planned on hiking on Wednesday, but when we realized that the weather was going to be super hot this weekend we decided to go then. So we set out to find a city fun alternative. We headed to our local ballpark Safeco field and partook of the super cool ball park tour. We got to learn neat facts, visit normally off limit areas and we even got to go down onto the field. All the boys (jon included) had a great time. After the tour we had lunch in the city and then just before heading home Jack took a few (hundred) passes through the waterfall tunnel at Westlake Center. It was a beautiful day in the city.

Stay-cation Day Two | Bowling

2009-07-23T15:14:00.000-07:00

Tuesday we met Nan, Pop and Grandma Shirley at the bowling alley for a little bowling bonanza. We went to a great facility for families with awesome bumpers, light balls and a ball ramp. Jack loved it and totally got into each of his turns. Max and Grandma Shirley enjoyed some fruit snacks and time together. Jon and his dad tied, and Robin and I realized that bowling is not for us. After bowling we headed to the Olive Gardent (one of Shirley's favorites) for a little lunch. A great stay-cation day in deed.

Stay-cation Day One | The Zoo

2009-07-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

Jon is on vacation this week and we decided to stick around from some local fun. Monday we set out to enjoy a family favorite with a few new added attractions : THE ZOO. The weather was beautiful so it was a great day to walk leisurly around the zoo. There is a new exhibit that Jack was totally psyched about...Camel Rides. With very little coaksing Jack hopped aboard a camel for a little jaunt around. He did a great job.

Next is was off to visit the Bidgies. Beautiful and Bright colored birds that flew all about. If you patiently held out a little feed stick they would land and snack right in front of you.

After a long hot day of zoo-ing it was off to the playground portion where they have a sprinkler park. The boys cooled off and Max truly enjoyed himself.

Then back into the car...and 15 minutes into the drive...boys were asleep.
The oh so thrilled mom and dad who know that an early bedtime will take place tonight. Yippee. (Jack loves to man the camera)

Ahh, day one of stay-cation a success. Tomorrow : Bowling Mania.

Weekend Recap

2009-07-20T15:29:00.000-07:00

This last Saturday was packed full of fun. To start the day off Jack and I recieved a phone call from Morfar offering us tickets to the local raceway which was holding drag races. Jack and I jumped at the chance so in no time at all we were in the car (leaving Max and Dad at home) We enjoyed a day of LOUD cars, lots of sun and good mom and Jack time.

Soon after we returned home we left again (this time with Max and Dad) to the long awaited Family BBQ where the boys would have the opportunity to meet Grandma Shriley. Jon's Grandma made her way up to visit from Arizona and we were so excited to see her. We had a great time, good food, and Pop had even ordered entertainment, a fantastic Magician who had Jack captivated. It was a great evening.

Latin Flair when He Fits

2009-07-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

After being two for a month Max has hit the switch and decided to embrace his two-ness whole heartedly. The fits and tantrums have ramped up big time.

The littlest thing can set off a tyraid like no other. Max appears to be the kind of kiddo who just needs to let it all out (in a dramatic fashion) and then go about his business. Last week after throwing a fit about something minor I sent Max to sit on the bottom step, as per our routine. I returned to the kitchen and soon noticed that the noise of unhappiness was getting farther away. I followed the sound and found Max lying face down in our upstairs bathroom. There he continued his fit. I snapped a picture and then informed him that when he was done crying he could join us downstairs. 5 minutes latter Max appeared in the kitchen with a smile and a simple "hi mom". He was done and ready to move on.

Oooo....Ahhhh | Happy 4th of July

2009-07-05T10:04:00.000-07:00

In a word our fourth of july was: Low Key . (I guess that is two words)but it was just right for us this year. The boys are both running low grade temps and recovering from the roadtrip pandemonium and I (meg) am having a little back pain flare up, so low key was fine by us. Our morning was leisurely, Jon made his salsa, I made a tasty avocado,corn and blackbean dip, and then come 2 we headed to the Lyons for a little family bbq. As always tasty food was served, the kids got to play with cousin Madison, Jon and Jeff challenged one another to rounds of badmittion and we devoured Pop's famous "ice cones". We headed home around 6 for our own "fireworks" show. We set out a blanket in the front yard and Jon took is place on the sidewalk with the lighter. Now mind you, the works would have been much more of a wow had we waited till it was dark, but we need the boys to be in bed on time. And despite the sun still shining the boys were impressed with the show. After that it was off to bed for the boys, Mom and dad relaxed with books, and enjoyed the INSANE light and bomb-sounding display that our neighborhood puts on. All in all a great 4th.

While Jack loved the box...he was super nervous that this firework would be to loud. Luckily for him...we were all disappointed.

Max totally got into doing sparklers. I have a feeling that he may be our pyro.

Wonderful Roadtrip - Yet Again.

2009-07-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

This last week the boys and I set out once again with my mom for a roadtrip getaway to California. We went to California to spend time with Fred and Georgeann. Longtime friends, my mom and Georgeann went to elementary school together. Their house is great for kids with the pool and three fantastic animals for the boys to enjoy: a dog, a chicken and a turtle. Good Times.

Thursday
We left on thursday morning around 9:30 with the intention to drive as far as we could get and then stop off at a hotel. The boys did such a stellar job. Once again I was wowed by my kiddos and their go with the flow attitudes. We stopped in Medford, OR for dinner around 6, then back into the car. We drove to my favorite town, Yreka, CA for some ice cream and it was there that we decided why not just throw the boys in PJS and drive through the night. So we did. We stopped at 10:00 and put the boys in jammies, handed Max his blanket and milk, and we were off. We pulled into our destination: Danville, CA at 1:45am, quietly unloaded the boys and it was to bed for a very tired mom and mormor.

Friday
We awoke ready to do what we came to do: SWIM so into the pool we went. Jack was once again in his element. He is a fish. He jumped off the side a ton and was so proud of all his water accomplishments. Max was a little hesitant at first , but the security of his life jacket and the pool steps soon had this little guy in the water and splashing about. Our day was great. Relaxed and around the house was just what we needed after our day of driving.

Saturday
After a long hard day of poolside fun on friday the boys and I were ready for a little adventure. Our fantastic hosts Fred and Georgeann took us all to San Fransisco. We rode the BART train which the boys loved, then we walked (a lot) around pier 39. The sun was hot, but being along the water was so beautiful and just the kind of activity that we needed. Jack walked so much that day and had a fantastic attitude. Max was lucky enough to be passed around by the adults. After much fun and sun, we headed home with tired boys....who retired early while the adults got to enjoy some tasty dinner.

Sunday
The day was HOT...105.... so poolside was where we were. Enough said.

Monday
Since we were in the area Mom and I decided to take a little trek to see my good friend from jr. high and her mom. They just happen to live a half hour away from where we were staying so that was great. We ventured to Amy's house, met her kiddos and then we took the kids to her local park/sprinkler park to play. The boys had a blast. Then we ventured to Amy's mom's house for lunch and so the "moms" could talk.Around 4 we headed back to the Kurtz house to swim one last time. Then we put the boys to bed early, and then mom and I packed up.

Tuesday
Come 5:30am we were on the road and homeward bound. With Starbuck and a doughnut to start us off we drove till about 11:00. Then atop mount shasta we stopped at the famous Black Bear Diner for brunch. Tasty as always, it filled our bellies and it was off we went. Around 3 or so we stopped to feed the boys again, then back on the road. The boys did a great job. A few minor sibling spats occurred, but nothing different then what occurs everyday in our living room. We were home and in our own beds at 11:00.

Once again, I had a great time with my boys,with my mom and with our friends The Kurtz family. Thanks so much Georgeann and Fred for opening your home to us, Already Jack is talking about the next time.....

A Fabulous Father's Day

2009-06-23T06:50:00.000-07:00

Now it seems to me that for a father the ideal father's day would go something like this: sleep in, awake to breakfast made, all family members leave the house, a whole day spent alone doing whatever you want, family comes back home for good "meat" dinner, given just the perfect/needed gift...and call it Fathers Day. While ideal for many that was not ours, but Jon assures me that our fathers day was great. Jack had been plotting all week that he wanted to take Jon breakfast in bed. He had the menu and delivery planned down to the last detail. On Sunday morning he approached my side of the bed at 5:30 and asked if it was time. I escorted him back to his room and he and I camped out till 6:30, then the festivities could begin. Jack delivered breakfast and his gift to Jon and Jon was a great sport. The two of them sat in bed and ate old fashioned doughnuts and chatted. When Max awoke I brought him to join the bed party. They then began reading some of the new books Max gave Jon. After the bed had been amply covered in doughnut crumbs it was off to getting ready and heading to church. After church we had lunch with the MCLYONS crew (mcnabb and lyons families joined) at my parents house. kabobs, tasty salads, man beverages and dessert. We took a break from father festivities to celebrate our niece Madison's third birthday. I got to make her a ridiculously girl cake, and she opened all manner of pink things. After dessert and more family, our family packed up and came home, with one thing on the mind of Jon and Jack : XBOX. Jack had given Jon the "Lego Indiana Jones" game for fathers day and they were both excited to play. So they played, we gave children a bath..and called it a day. At the end of it all we are one very lucky family to have Jon as our daddy. He loves his boys so much, he is such a great example to them of what a man of God is. It is my sincere prayer that our boys follow in their father's footsteps. Thanks Jon. We love you! (even if the post is a day or two late)

Roadtrip Countdown

2009-06-18T12:43:00.001-07:00

The boys and I have begun our countdown for the roadtrip we will embark on next week. We plan to once again drive with my mom down to California to visit her friend, but most importantly for the kids we will visit : the pool, the turtle, the dog and the pet chicken. Jack wakes every morning asking if this is california day, and his whole concept of summer is based on whether something happens before or after california. I will admit that I am a little more nervous about the trip this go 'round because,put very simply, we have Max. He is very much a physical kid, and I don't know how well he will do being "contained" for such a long time. So prayers are welcome on that subject. But more than being a little nervous, I am very excited. I check the weather today and it looks like we are in for some sunshine, which sound great to me. Here is to lazy days in and out of the pool...and early bedtimes for throughly warn out children. Bring it on!

God's Hand of Protection

2009-06-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

At 1:30 in the morning Jack appeared in our room and was crying. I got up and asked him what was wrong. " My blanket is stuck in my lamp, my blanket is stuck in his lamp". A little confused by his statement I started to follow him back to his room. As soon as we got into the hallway I could smell that something was burning. We rushed into his room. There we discovered that during the night his lamp (which is usually turned off) had tipped off the shelf and landed on his much beloved lightning mcqueen blanket. The blanket, the plastic of his lamp and his pillow were a large melty mess of fire danger. We quickly unplugged the lamp, rushed the pile into the bathroom and this is what we saw:

We immediately work Jon up, brought him into the the bathroom and showed him the mess. Then right there in the bathroom we prayed and thanked God for his hand of protection on Jack and our family. Jack was obviously shaken, having awoken to the smell of burning...but even more than that he was so distraught that the beloved blanket that mormor gave him is not salvageable, that brought a whole new round of tears. After we go the crying under control, Jack was not a big fan of sleeping by himself (understandable) and his room smelled awful, so we grabbed his sleeping back and Mom and Jack had a camp out on the floor down in the living room. So there it is, the recap of our exciting midnight happenings...and thank God, that that was all we had to deal with.

Highlight of our Year

2009-06-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend Jon and I attended our favorite event of the year , the :20 Funny Festival. It is a comedy show featuring several comedians sponsored by our local radio stations. For the last four years we have attended in honor of our anniversary. Once again this year our Saturday night was a hit and worth the wait. Good food, Good laughs and much fun. We started with a fantastic dinner at great resturant in Seattle, LoLa. The food was amazing and the resturant had a great ambiance. Then we walked around the city a bit and then off to the show.At the show we met up with our friend Jeff and Erinn. This year there were three comedians scheduled, the headliner whom we are a big fan of but also they promised that there would be a "special guest". It was our lucky night because the special guest was a hugely popular comedian named Mike Birbiglia. He is hysterical and this was the first chance we had to see him live. It was great. We drew the evening to a close with some tasty desert and then home we went. All ready the countdown has begun for next years show.

Here is a little highlight reel:

check out www.tomdouglas.com to make yourself a reservation at Lola

Our excitment 5 minutes prior to the show could not adequetly be captured on the terrible camera phone.

Settle in and Check out Mike Birbiglia

Funny Lady Kathleen Madigan

New Friends: of the fish variety

2009-06-11T17:04:00.001-07:00

Sadly last week our dear goldfish, Tom Riley, passed away. While his passing was tragic, for all of 30 seconds, Jack none the less began to ask for a new fish. Well, he was in luck. Our church's pastoral intern Sarah is done with her time and is driving home to Chicago. When she learned of our tragedy she offered up her office fish tank. She was convinced that the could not survive the roadtrip and that our house would be a good and loving place for them. So today we welcomed into our humble abode : Tom (part2), Jerry, Isaac and Samuel. Jack is thrilled and insisted that we rearrange his room to accomadate them and the new take. Thanks Sarah!